President Adama Barrow of The Gambia, also serving as Chancellor of the University of The Gambia (UTG), addressed attendees at the institution's seventeenth convocation ceremony. The event, held at the Faraba Banta Campus, recognized the academic achievements of the 2024 graduating class.
Barrow began by expressing his honor in presiding over the ceremony and acknowledged the importance of education in shaping the nation’s future. He congratulated the graduating class, their families, and the university staff for their hard work and dedication. "Hearty congratulations to all of you!" Barrow stated, emphasizing the role of faculty and staff in mentoring the students.
In his speech, President Barrow highlighted his government's commitment to education and skills training, aligning with the theme "Reorienting Our Tertiary and Higher Education Landscape to Empower the Youth with Employability and Entrepreneurship Skills." He noted the global issue of youth unemployment and discussed initiatives to reverse this trend in The Gambia. "We are ensuring that our graduates are not dependent job seekers but productive, dependable, and independent job creators," he said.
Barrow detailed developments within the education sector, such as the completion of the Mansa Konko Multi-purpose Skills Centre and nearing completion of the TVET Centre of Excellence in Wassu, among other projects. He announced plans for new centers focusing on agri-business and fisheries, and renovations of existing facilities. Further discussions with China were highlighted, aiming to establish a Luban Workshop focusing on practical skills in high-demand sectors.
The President also spoke on advancements at the University of Science, Engineering, and Technology (USET) and the transition of The Gambia College and Management Development Institute for broader educational opportunities. Announcements were made regarding the upcoming inauguration of new UTG facilities and the integration of Madrassah education into the mainstream system.
Efforts to bolster youth employment were underscored, with Barrow mentioning a four-hundred-million-Dalasi fund supporting TVET centers and a Graduate Employment Scheme in collaboration with international organizations. He concluded by urging graduates to utilize their education to innovate and lead. "The world awaits your brilliance; therefore, go forth, be bold, and make your mark on the world," Barrow encouraged.
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