By Sariba Manneh
The Gambia Association of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (GADHOH) Deaf School held its inaugural graduation ceremony on Saturday, marking a significant milestone for the institution dedicated to empowering deaf and hard of hearing students. The event, held on the school grounds in Brikama Jamisa, was themed “Empowering the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Communities Through Education and Inclusion.”
Principal Karamo Sanyang reflected on the school’s journey, describing it as a long-held vision realized through international partnership. “Our dream became a reality with generous support from Foundation BUGANALA of the Netherlands, in collaboration with the GADHOH Head Office,” he said. Since its official opening in November 2009, the school has grown from three classrooms and basic facilities to a vibrant center focused on inclusive education for deaf learners.
Sanyang emphasized the school’s commitment to creating a safe and empowering environment that upholds the rights and dignity of its students. Thanks to partners like Friends of EFFAright, GADHOH has been able to meet critical needs including transportation, staff salaries, uniforms, and learning materials — allowing the school to concentrate on its core mission of education.
Highlighting the growth of Deaf leadership, Sanyang noted the success of two deaf teachers who earned diplomas in Early Childhood Development from the Gambia College School of Education, exemplifying the power of inclusion and professional development within the community.
Despite these achievements, the principal acknowledged ongoing challenges. The shortage of trained Sign Language interpreters at tertiary institutions limits access to higher education. Transportation remains difficult, with many students traveling long distances without dedicated school buses and facing communication barriers with commercial drivers. Additionally, limited technical equipment hampers the delivery of vocational training.
“These challenges are not setbacks but calls to action,” Sanyang said. “They remind us that while we have made progress, there is still much work ahead to achieve full inclusion for Deaf children in The Gambia.”
Sanyang congratulated the graduating students for their resilience and success, urging them to move forward with confidence and pride. He also expressed gratitude to the teachers, staff, parents, donors, and partners who have sustained the school’s mission. “Inclusive education is not a privilege but a fundamental right,” he concluded. “Together, we can build a future where every Deaf child can learn, dream, and lead.”
Madam Isatou Ndow, Vice Principal of Gambia College, spoke on the importance of early language acquisition and access to sign language as critical to the academic and social development of deaf children. “Sign language fosters communication, inclusivity, and cultural understanding,” she said. Ndow underscored that education equips deaf children with the tools to access information and participate fully in society.
Jarra Saidy, the outgoing Head Girl, shared a heartfelt message of pride and encouragement. “Being Head Girl was about standing with my fellow students, representing your voices and hopes,” she said. “Our hearing difference is not a weakness but our identity and strength. With Gambian Sign Language and technology, we learn, express ourselves, and grow.”
She thanked teachers and staff for not only imparting academic knowledge but also life values, creating a nurturing school community. To her juniors, Jarra advised, “Be proud of who you are. Dream big and be the leaders of tomorrow.”
