By Ndey Sowe
The awards ceremony for the 12th edition (2024–2025) of the National Fanta Science and Mathematics Quiz, along with the launch of the 13th edition (2025–2026), was held on Thursday, 10 April 2025, at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Center in Bijilo.
The National Fanta Science and Mathematics Quiz is an initiative aimed at enhancing students’ performance and interest in science-related fields. The awards ceremony brought together education authorities, parents, teachers, and most importantly, brilliant and inspiring students from across The Gambia.
Toni Cuerva, General Manager of GAMBEGA Ltd—the main sponsor of the competition—emphasised the importance of celebrating students’ passion, creativity, and determination.
“This event is not just about rewarding knowledge, but also the courage to imagine, solve, and innovate,” Cuerva said. “Science and mathematics are not just school subjects—they are the foundation upon which we build tomorrow’s hospitals, technologies, and solutions.”
This year’s competition was described as more dynamic, inclusive, and engaging than ever before.
Nusrat Senior Secondary School emerged as the winner of the 12th edition of the quiz, organized by the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (MoBSE) in collaboration with GAMBEGA Ltd and GRTS. The national final was held on 27 February 2025. St. Peter’s SSS secured second place, followed by Charles Jaw Memorial Academy in third, and Essau SSS in fourth. All participating schools received certificates and cash prizes.
Sira Ceesay of St. Peter’s SSS was awarded the Most Outstanding Student of the 12th edition.
Louise Moses Mendy, Permanent Secretary at MoBSE, said the country needs scientists who dare to think differently, mathematicians who solve difficult problems, engineers who build the future, and inventors who create opportunities.
He congratulated the winners for their outstanding achievements and praised GAMBEGA for its unwavering commitment to education.
“We are committed to empowering the next generation of Gambian leaders and change-makers,” Mendy added. “Let’s continue to invest in education and together shape a brighter future for The Gambia.”
Henrietta Sonko, CEO of the MRC Holland Foundation, stressed the need for more science and math teachers in the country.
“If you are ready to become a chemistry teacher in Baja Kunda, we will give you a scholarship,” she pledged, calling for scientific labs in all schools, especially in rural areas.
Speaking on behalf of the students, Omar Sanyang from Nusrat SSS highlighted how the competition sharpened their academic abilities and strengthened their confidence and teamwork.
“This quiz has been an amazing learning experience for all of us. It has ignited a new passion and excitement for the subjects we hold dear,” Sanyang said. “It has shown us how science and math shape the future and offer solutions to build a better world.”
He thanked GAMBEGA, MoBSE, and GRTS for their investment in youth education, as well as his teachers and school administration for their unwavering support.
Other speakers at the event included Essa Jallow, Director of TV Programmes at GRTS; Bakary Ceesay, Director of Region One; and Fatou Bittaye, Director of Science and Technology Education, who echoed similar sentiments about the importance of STEM education.
Launched in 2009 and funded by GAMBEGA, the Fanta Science and Mathematics Quiz is a national initiative targeting senior secondary school students. The competition includes regional qualifiers leading up to the national final to nurture interest and talent in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), contributing to the socio-economic development of The Gambia.
