The Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (MoHERST), in partnership with the Commonwealth of Learning (COL), successfully commenced Day 1 of the University of Applied Science, Engineering and Technology (USET) nationwide tour at the Mansakonko Centre.
Led by MoHERST’s Gender Focal Point, Ms. Kumba Jammeh, alongside a delegation of education stakeholders, the visit formed part of a national initiative aimed at promoting girls’ participation in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) across The Gambia.
The programme began with a general student meeting, where students and staff engaged in open dialogue on opportunities available in STEM and TVET fields. During the discussion, students actively shared their experiences and highlighted key challenges affecting their learning, particularly limited resources, practical exposure, and the need for more mentorship and support for female students in technical fields.
In response to these engagements, discussions were also held on the establishment of a student-led STEM and TVET Club. This initiative is expected to be spearheaded by the students themselves, with the aim of promoting peer learning, innovation, collaboration, and continuous engagement in science and technical education activities within the centre.
The delegation further conducted a guided tour of the USET Mansakonko facilities, observing training workshops, equipment, and learning environments designed to support practical skills development. This allowed stakeholders to assess current capacities and identify areas for further strengthening.
In addition, focused discussions were held with both students and staff, capturing experiences, success stories, and perspectives on gender inclusion in technical education. These inputs will contribute to a documentary being developed to document the nationwide tour and highlight key findings and achievements.
Overall, Day 1 of the tour at Mansakonko Centre was impactful, reinforcing MoHERST and COL’s commitment to bridging the gender gap in STEM and TVET. The engagement provided a strong platform for awareness-raising, student participation, and empowerment particularly encouraging young girls to pursue careers in science and technical fields.
The initiative continues to reflect a shared national vision of inclusive education and skills development, ensuring that girls and young women are actively participating in and benefiting from The Gambia’s STEM and TVET agenda.
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