The Tertiary and Higher Education Trust Fund (THET Fund), under the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (MoHERST), today held its inaugural National Career Fest, bringing together students, tertiary institutions, TVET providers, employers, entrepreneurs, development partners and policymakers to promote informed career choices and strengthen the link between education and employment.
Delivering the keynote address, the Honourable Minister of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, Professor Pierre Gomez, described the event as a significant milestone that reflects the nation’s shared commitment to investing in its greatest asset—its young people.
“It is a great honour to join you today at this inaugural National Career Fest, a milestone that reflects our shared commitment to investing in the greatest asset our nation possesses, which is our young people,” Professor Gomez said.
The Minister expressed gratitude to His Excellency President Adama Barrow for his unwavering commitment to education, youth empowerment and human capital development. He noted that the President’s leadership continues to drive transformative reforms across the education sector, reaffirming that education remains a national priority as the future of The Gambia depends on educated, skilled and innovative citizens.
Professor Gomez highlighted that, in line with MoHERST’s strategic vision, the Tertiary and Higher Education Trust Fund was established as a sustainable financing mechanism to strengthen tertiary and higher education institutions and enhance their capacity to contribute to national development. He explained that the National Career Fest is one of the Fund’s flagship initiatives, designed to inspire students and expose them to a wide range of academic, professional and entrepreneurial opportunities.
Held under the theme “Becoming: From Education to Limitless Opportunities,” the Career Fest provided a platform for students to explore career pathways, scholarship opportunities, entrepreneurship, employability skills, mentorship and networking with universities, TVET institutions, employers and innovators.
Addressing the students, Professor Gomez encouraged them to remain resilient, believe in their abilities and pursue careers that align with their talents and aspirations. He urged participants to take full advantage of the opportunities available by engaging with exhibitors, seeking guidance and building networks that will support their future success.
The Minister also commended employers, development partners and other stakeholders for their continued support in creating internships, apprenticeships, mentorship programmes and graduate employment opportunities. He stressed that preparing young people for the future requires strong collaboration among government, academia, industry and development partners.
Professor Gomez concluded by commending the THET Fund Governing Board and Management for initiating the National Career Fest and encouraged them to institutionalise it as an annual platform that will continue to inspire young Gambians, bridge the gap between education and employment, and contribute to building a highly skilled workforce capable of driving The Gambia’s socio-economic transformation.
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