By Aminata Ceesay
The Banjul American International School (BAIS), over the weekend trained over 130 from Gambia Teachers Institute across the country on exploring literacy through drama, morning circle for early childhood classes, class debates for critical thinking and listening and math strategies for understanding operations with fractions at the BAIS ground in Fajara. The event was funded by the US Embassy.
Speaking at the event, the US Ambassador to The Gambia, Patricia Alsup stated that this is the second time that the school is embarking on such conference, adding that it draws upon the strength of both the Banjul American International School and the Peace Corps education team as they have collaborated to organize an event that promotes effective student -centered teaching practices designed specifically for the needs and context of Gambian classroom.
She added: “The Gambia Teachers Institute demonstrates the commitment of both the US Embassy and the Banjul American International School in supporting education throughout the Gambia which is an extraordinary opportunity for professional growth and collaboration to enhance the education of Gambian children.”
According to the US Ambassador the Banjul American International School will strengthen ties with other schools such as Gambia School for the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing, the Ebunjan Theatre, and the Tunbang Art Village to promote education for Gambia.
The Director of Banjul American International School Caleb Steindam, for his part, stated that the training will serve as a means to provide quality education, share information as well as encourage good practices in the area of technology.
He added: “This is the second time the school is embarking on such training which is basically a good move, and it will as well serve as means to encourage teachers to take ownership of their responsibilities.”
