The Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology is proud to introduce Ms. Isatou Auber as the new Permanent Secretary, a highly accomplished senior executive whose career spans more than 25 years of exceptional leadership at national, and international levels.
Renowned for her strategic vision, integrity, and results-driven management style, Ms. Auber brings a rare blend of global experience and deep institutional knowledge to the role, positioning MoHERST to drive innovation, strengthen governance, and transform The Gambia’s higher education and research landscape.
Ms. Auber is a seasoned public sector leader with extensive expertise in strategic leadership, human resource management, institutional reform, and organizational development. Prior to her appointment at MoHERST, she served as Assistant Secretary General of the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) Secretariat in Brussels, where she provided high-level strategic oversight for Administration, Finance, and Human Resources, while advising the Council of Ministers representing 79 member states.
Her distinguished career in The Gambia’s Civil Service includes several senior leadership roles, notably Secretary to Cabinet, Deputy Managing Director of the Gambia National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), Permanent Secretary at the Office of the President, and senior positions at the Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs, the Civil Aviation Authority, and the Personnel Management Office. She has also served on the boards of key national institutions including NAWEC, GNPC, GIEPA, and Gambia International Airlines, contributing to policy direction and corporate governance at the highest level.
Ms. Auber has played a pivotal role in advancing public sector transformation, serving as National Expert for the UNDP-supported Public Service Reform and Institutional Capacity Development Project, where she coordinated and participated in stakeholder engagements, policy reviews, and civil service reforms aimed at improving efficiency and accountability. She is widely recognized for her integrity, strategic thinking, and ability to lead complex, multicultural teams while delivering measurable and sustainable results.
She holds a Master’s degree in Human Resource Management from the University of Derby (UK), a Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences from the University of Ottawa (Canada), and several executive and professional certifications in finance, strategic management, and French.
With a steadfast commitment to excellence, innovation, and good governance, Ms. Auber will work with the dedicated and commendable team at MoHERST to support the Ministry’s efforts in championing institutional strengthening, workforce development, and sustainable progress within The Gambia’s education, research, and science sectors.
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