Directorate of Planning, Budget and Policy Analysis

About Planning and Budget

The Directorate of Planning, Budget and Policy Analysis has the core function of carrying out all planning activities. This includes the functions of budget preparation and execution, development, review and analysis of policies for informed decision-making by the authorities.

The key functions of this directorate revolves around data collection, analysis and dessimination, either for the Ministry or partners of the Ministry. The Directorate also plays the principal role in the preparation of the Ministry's annual budget, and given their responsibility in coordinating the strategic planning process, this Directorate is mandated to align the activities of the Ministry with both the manpower and activity budget.

Mandate

Develop and implement a comprehensive planning framework for the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology, aligning it with national development goals and priorities.
Coordinate the formulation, review, and evaluation of policies, regulations, and guidelines related to Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology.
Conduct policy analysis to inform evidence-based decision-making and policy formulation within the Ministry.
Develop and manage the Ministry's budget and budgeting process, ensuring efficient allocation and utilisation of financial resources.
Monitor and evaluate the implementation of programmes and initiatives, assessing their effectiveness, efficiency, and impact.
Facilitate the development of strategic plans, performance indicators, and targets for the Ministry.
Coordinate the collection, analysis, and dissemination of data and statistics related to Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology.
Provide support and guidance to the Ministry's Directorates in the development of their annual work plans and budgets.
Collaborate with relevant stakeholders, such as government agencies, international organisations, and development partners, to coordinate planning and policy efforts.
Prepare periodic reports and presentations on the Ministry's planning, policy, and budgeting activities for senior management and external stakeholders.
Monitor and assess the impact of national and international policies and trends on higher education, research, science and technology.

Our Mission

To play a central role in the transformation of The Gambia into a skills-based economy and knowledge society.

Guiding Principles in STI Development

Commitment

It is necessary to ensure that there is full and unabridged national commitment to STI that translates into solid investments by both the public and private sectors and the widespread adoption of technologies for socio-economic development.

Concentration

It is important to ensure full and maximum utilization of the country‘s scarce resources in strategic priority areas. Efforts must be focused on those sectors where the nation‘s greatest strengths lie and where the opportunities for growth and leadership are highest.

Capacity

It is necessary to strengthen the nation's capacity and capability to effectively engage STI as a tool for wealth creation and social well-being through education, expansion and upgrading of the STI infrastructure.

Collaboration

The promotion of smart partnerships and synergies between civil society, research institutions, universities and industries will enhance the success of this policy.

Commercialization

It is necessary to enhance the nation's ability to commercialize national products, processes, services and outputs of research and innovations that meet market demands in a competitive way through the adoption of an aggressive export-oriented strategy.

Culture

It is essential to foster a culture that promotes creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship in STI through the creation of an environment that rewards market-driven ideas, supports science and innovation and inspires interest in STI indigenous technology careers.

Community Participation

The enhancement of community support, appreciation and active participation in STI development relevant to their daily lives and in accordance with acceptable national cultural norms, ethics and practices is essential.