By Kebba AF Touray
The Education Committee of The Gambia’s National Assembly has endorsed the Gambia Tertiary and Higher Education Trust Fund Bill 2024 which seeks to expand access to educational programs and ensure sustainable financing for higher education institutions.
In a report presented to lawmakers, the committee underscored the bill’s potential to provide financial relief to tertiary and higher education institutions, which have long struggled with funding constraints. The bill was introduced in the Sixth Legislature on June 24, 2024, during the Third Ordinary Session of the legislative year.
Following its second reading, members debated the bill’s general merits and principles before referring it to the Assembly Business Committee. The committee then assigned the bill to the Select Committee on Education, Training, and ICT for further scrutiny and consultations.
Hon. Alhagie Mbow, Chairperson of the Education Committee, described the proposed legislation as a transformative step towards diversifying funding sources beyond the government’s traditional monthly subventions.
“The bill aims to establish a sustainable and reliable pathway for both public and accredited private institutions to access the resources they need,” Mbow said. “It will enhance the quality, relevance, and accessibility of educational programs, fostering an inclusive and dynamic learning environment.”
The committee conducted hearings with witnesses and reviewed the bill clause by clause to ensure its provisions align with The Gambia’s 1997 Constitution and other national laws.
Mbow emphasised that the bill is designed to promote equal opportunities for accredited private and public institutions, enabling them to secure funding for expansion and program development.
“Ultimately, this initiative seeks to support the growth of the sector and strengthen The Gambia’s human capital to meet future socio-economic demands,” he said.
As part of its review, the committee proposed several amendments to the bill, notably to Clause 5, which outlines the funding structure. The committee recommended that:
- 30% of the fund’s resources be drawn from the Education Levy.
- The Petroleum Levy’s contribution be reduced from 10% to 5%.
- Clause 5(C) be removed altogether.
For Clause 16, the committee proposed granting the Executive Director the authority to appoint certain staff members with the approval of the Board.
The National Assembly adopted the committee’s report, and as of yesterday, lawmakers were considering the final passage of the bill.
