By Nelson Manneh
The Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology has announced scholarships for all winners of the 2025 Teacher Prize, enabling them to further their studies at various levels at the University of The Gambia. The declaration was made by Minister of Higher Education, Professor Pierre Gomez during the 2025 Teacher Prize Award Night.
Now in its second edition, the Teacher Prize is an annual event dedicated to celebrating the contributions of educators and recognizing their impact on shaping the future. The award ceremony not only honors teachers, but also serves as a platform for reflection on the significance of their role in molding young minds.
This year, eight regional winners were recognized, each receiving a cash prize of D50,000. The national winner took home D100,000. The regional winners were: Mr. Amadou Camara – Region One, Mr. Ebrima Gaye – Region Two West, Mr. Samba Jallow – Region Two East, Mr. Muhammed Kandeh – Region Three, Mrs. Angelic Isatou Mendy – Region Four, Hawa Jaiteh – Region Five North, Mr. Babucarr Ceesay – Region Five South, Mr. Malang Sanneh – Region Six
Mrs. Angelic Isatou Mendy from Region Four was crowned the national winner of the 2025 Teacher Prize.
The Teacher Prize Award is an initiative spearheaded by the Namie Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to transforming education, particularly in underserved communities in The Gambia. Based in the Hudson Valley, the foundation focuses on professional development for educators from Early Childhood Development to Grade Twelve and beyond.
Serving as the chief guest of honor, Vice President Muhammed B.S. Jallow emphasized the invaluable role teachers play in national development.
“Our teachers have gone above and beyond in shaping minds, building character, and nurturing the future of The Gambia,” VP Jallow stated. “Behind every educated citizen, skilled professional, and leader, there is a teacher who inspired, challenged, and guided them. Teachers are not just educators; they are nation-builders. Investing in quality education and supporting teachers is one of the most effective ways to ensure sustainable development and a prosperous future.”
Jallow further highlighted that no country can progress without investing in its teachers, as they lay the foundation for social and economic transformation.
“They mold our future doctors, engineers, policymakers, and entrepreneurs. They instill values, ignite curiosity, and equip young minds with the tools needed to build a better tomorrow. Events like this reinforce that teaching is not just a profession—it is a calling, a noble pursuit that shapes generations,” he added.
Minister Gomez echoed these sentiments, stating that the Teacher Prize Award Night is a celebration of excellence and the dedication of teachers.
“Education is the one thing that remains when everything else fades. Teachers train the leaders of today and tomorrow. They build the future of societies,” he remarked. “It is teachers who build our skill sets, shape public figures, and help define a nation.”
He stressed that recognizing teachers will further motivate them in their work, as their greatest reward is often the impact they have on their students. He then officially announced that all eight regional winners would receive scholarships to further their education.
Award committee chairperson Mr. Lamin Jarjou underscored the importance of motivating teachers and ensuring they are valued in society.
“A good teacher can inspire and guide students through their educational journey. The Namie Foundation initiated this award to uplift the teaching profession and ensure teachers are appreciated,” he said. “This foundation exists to motivate teachers and retain them in the sector. Education is not a privilege; it is a right.”
The Teacher Prize continues to grow in prestige, attracting attention and appreciation for the teaching profession. With the added incentive of scholarships, this initiative further reinforces the government’s commitment to improving education in The Gambia.
