Gambia: Govt donates fully-equipped ambulance to UTG Faraba Banta campus

In a groundbreaking move to enhance healthcare and support educational development, the Gambia Government, through the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (MoHERST) and the Ministry of Health, donated a fully equipped ambulance to the University of The Gambia (UTG) Faraba Banta Campus.

The ceremonial handover, held at the campus, marked a significant milestone in improving health services for students, staff, and the surrounding communities. The event was graced by prominent dignitaries, including the Ministers of Health and MoHERST, UTG Vice Chancellor Prof. Herbert Robinson, senior officials, and members of the UTG Students’ Union executive.

Prof. Herbert Robinson, Vice Chancellor of UTG, expressed profound gratitude to the government and MoHERST Minister Prof. Pierre Gomez for their efforts. “This ambulance is a testament to the Gambia Government’s commitment to health and education. I commend the Students’ Union for their resilience in managing the campus sickbay despite limited resources. With 7,000 students, accessible healthcare is crucial,” he said.

Prof. Pierre Gomez, MoHERST Minister, called the donation “historic,” reflecting on the longstanding challenges faced by UTG’s medical community. “This ambulance addresses a critical gap. Dr. Samateh’s unwavering dedication to medical advancement, exemplified by the launch of postgraduate nursing programmes, is inspiring. Furthermore, Phase Two of the campus, with modern labs and a state-of-the-art School of Medicine, is a game-changer,” he remarked.

Health Minister Dr. Ahmad Lamin Samateh praised the Students’ Union for their proactive role in the project and urged students to uphold patriotism and excellence. “This achievement underscores the power of collaboration. Prof. Gomez and I are delivering on the vision of His Excellency President Adama Barrow, whose commitment to national development is unwavering,” Dr. Samateh noted.

Mr. Nianinka Manajang, President of the UTG Students’ Union, and Mr. Alieu Jarju also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of partnerships in realizing such milestones. They commended the joint efforts of the Ministries of Health, MoHERST, and the Students’ Union in making the ambulance donation a reality.

The initiative marks a significant leap forward in strengthening healthcare services at the UTG Faraba Banta Campus, ensuring better emergency response for the university community and surrounding areas.