His Excellency Adama Barrow has today presided over the 18th Convocation Ceremony of the University of The Gambia at the Faraba Banta Campus, where he called on higher education institutions to play a more decisive role in shaping policy, driving innovation, and creating jobs.
Speaking at the ceremony, His Excellency the President and Chancellor congratulated the graduating Class of 2025, describing their achievement as a reflection of perseverance, discipline, and commitment. He also commended parents, guardians, lecturers, and mentors for their invaluable support.
His Excellency highlighted the growing importance of the Faraba Banta Campus, describing it as a symbol of national aspiration and a key investment in the transformation of The Gambia’s higher education sector.
Addressing the theme of the convocation, “Higher Education as a Strategic Bridge for Policy, Innovation, and Job Creation,” the President emphasized the urgent need to reposition universities as engines of national development. He urged institutions to strengthen research capacity, contribute to evidence-based policymaking, and reduce reliance on external expertise.
His Excellency further stressed the importance of innovation in a rapidly evolving global landscape, calling for stronger collaboration between universities and the private sector, as well as increased investment in research and the establishment of innovation hubs.
On job creation, the President noted that higher education must not only prepare graduates for employment but also equip them with the skills to create jobs and drive entrepreneurship.
He reaffirmed government’s commitment to supporting the sector through key initiatives such as the Tertiary and Higher Education Trust Fund, the National Research and Innovation Fund, and the Students’ Revolving Loan Scheme.
His Excellency concluded by urging graduates to uphold the values of excellence, humility, and service, and to use their education to contribute meaningfully to national development.
The ceremony marks another significant step in strengthening The Gambia’s higher education system and positioning it as a driver of sustainable development.
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