MoHERST validates madrassah integration report to bridge education gaps in Gambia

The Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology (MoHERST), in partnership with the World Bank through the RISE Project, held a pivotal workshop on Thursday, December 19, 2024, at the Metzy Residence Hotel Grand.

The event focused on the review and validation of the Madrassah Integration Consultancy Report and attracted a diverse group of stakeholders, including UNICEF Resident Representative Nafisa Bint Shafique, Presidential Adviser Momodou Sabally, Islamic university leaders, Imams, principals of Madrassah senior secondary schools, senior government officials, media personnel, and others invested in The Gambia’s Madrassah education sector.

In his keynote address, Honourable Minister Prof. Pierre Gomez highlighted the enduring importance of the Madrassah education system, which accounts for over 19% of The Gambia’s school population.

He described it as a “cornerstone of the nation’s moral, spiritual, and academic identity.” However, he acknowledged critical challenges faced by Madrassah grade 12 graduates, including limited English proficiency, a lack of vocational skills, and insufficient pathways to post-secondary education or professional careers.

“The integration of Madrassah education into our post-secondary education system, with a strong emphasis on TVET and STEM, is not merely a policy directive, it is a moral duty and a national obligation,” Minister Gomez asserted, underscoring the urgency for reforms to equip Madrassah students for the modern workforce.

Minister Gomez expressed gratitude to President Adama Barrow for his unwavering support and leadership, the World Bank for its financial and technical contributions, and stakeholders for their input, which he described as invaluable.

Presidential Adviser Momodou Sabally lauded the initiative, commending the efforts to incorporate TVET and STEM into Madrassah education. He assured attendees of sustained stakeholder support to ensure the success of the integration process.

UNICEF Resident Representative Nafisa Bint Shafique emphasized the event’s significance, advocating for the inclusion of Majaalis and Daaras as part of the Madrassah Integration framework to ensure a comprehensive approach.

Additional speakers, including Imam Baba Leigh, a member of the National TVET Committee, and Ms. Fatou Janneh, MoHERST Project Focal Point, echoed the importance of this initiative. Ms. Janneh, who also delivered the welcome remarks, co-chaired the event alongside project consultant Mohammed Hassan Loum.

The validation workshop marks a significant step toward transforming the Madrassah education system to better align with national development goals, fostering a generation of well-rounded and skilled individuals.