By Nelson Manneh
The Gambia Teachers’ Union Cooperative Credit Union (GTUCCU) on September 10, 2025, inaugurated its new administrative complex in Bakoteh, Kanifing Municipality, with President Adama Barrow as the Chief Guest.
Held at the Bakoteh Branch along SOS Tipper Garage Road, the event marked a milestone of progress and pride for the union’s over 30,000 members and the wider community.
The modern complex is designed to meet the increasing demands of members, strengthen service delivery, and reflect the union’s dedication to financial empowerment and community growth.
Ahead of the inauguration, a GTUCCU delegation led by CEO Dawda Kujabi officially invited President Barrow to preside over the launch of the new headquarters.
Addressing the gathering, Kujabi highlighted the union’s vital role in national development. “The union partners with the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education on initiatives that improve the welfare of teachers and members through affordable housing, transportation, food security, and entrepreneurship.”
Since its establishment in 1996 by the Gambia Teachers’ Union, GTUCCU has provided financial services, savings, and loans to teachers and their families. These include medical, educational, and housing loans, school improvement grants, and medical and legal support. With a “people-before-profit” principle, the union focuses on financial inclusion, member empowerment, and community development.
CEO Kujabi described the new headquarters as “a symbol of accountability” that will deliver stronger financial services. “GTUCCU is the sharpest cutting edge against poverty in this country, as it continues to empower its members,” he said.
He reaffirmed the union’s mission: “We empower Gambian educators and members by providing affordable financial services, promoting savings, and supporting socio-economic welfare through a cooperative, ‘people helping people’ model.”
In his keynote remarks, President Adama Barrow said the launch symbolized more than the opening of a building—it was a celebration of solidarity and progress. “GTUCCU represents more than a credit union; it uplifts lives and has become a trusted partner in financial development,” he said.
The President praised the union’s support to small businesses and its role in complementing government efforts. “This credit union helps individuals take charge of their financial future while contributing to national development, such as building teachers’ staff quarters in schools.”
President Barrow pledged continued government support to the teaching fraternity and acknowledged GTUCCU’s role in enhancing financial inclusion.
Mr. Abdou Karim Sey, President of the Teachers Credit Union, described GTUCCU as the nation’s largest credit union. “We provide one-by-six loans and other essential services that meet members’ needs,” he said, urging the government to allocate lands in all regions to facilitate affordable housing projects for members.
Mr. Ismail S. Ceesay, President of the Gambia Teachers Union (GTU), commended government reforms in education, particularly the creation of three additional public universities, including the University of Education, The Gambia.
“Since 1976, the Scheme of Service for the Teaching Cadre has never been this favorable,” he noted. He added that his executive had submitted proposals for Cadre Specific Allowances through MoBSE to the Ministry of Public Service, expressing hope for approval in the 2026 National Budget.
While appreciating government efforts in extending the Special Skills Allowance to graduate teachers, Ceesay urged for the prompt settlement of six months’ arrears as earlier agreed with MoBSE and the Ministry of Public Service.
He further called for an increase in the education development budget. “Your support in addressing these essential issues will not only uplift our educators but also contribute significantly to improving the entire education system,” he concluded.
