The University of The Gambia has said it is acting swiftly in addressing students concerns over internet connectivity, catering services, water supply and other conditions at the Faraba campus, the reasons for a protest at the UTG Kanifing campus on Monday.
In a statement yesterday, the UTG management said it recognises the importance of these matters to student welfare and to the effective delivery of teaching, learning and research. “Work is currently underway to improve access to food on campus and management has contacted existing and prospective vendors at schools where catering services were unavailable and asked them to resume or commence operations,” the statement said.
It added that as of yesterday, a food vendor is operating at each of the six schools.
On water supply, the management explained that it has purchased and installed 14 water dispensers all of which were operational across the university’s schools. It added that an additional 100 filled water dispenser bottles were purchased and delivered to campus for distribution among the schools.
”While these measures provide immediate support, management recognises the need for a more reliable and sustainable water supply. Engagement with Nawec is ongoing to address the underlying challenges affecting the university’s water supply and distribution system. Management is hopeful that further progress towards a sustainable solution will be achieved by next week,” it said.
On problems of internet connectivity, the UTG management said it has engaged the university’s existing internet service provider to implement a temporary solution at the Faculty of Law and the Dr Akinwumi A Adesina School of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences- two schools that are heavily affected by connectivity challenges.
Management said it appreciates the service provider’s support in undertaking this additional work on a pro bono basis stating that these are temporary interventions, as management is working with external key stakeholders to provide sustainable solutions.
On transportation, the management said the Ministry of Higher Education and Gambia Transport Service Company have agreed to deploy a fleet of 20 buses daily, in accordance with the contractual agreement.
The management pledged to monitor the number of buses deployed each day and provide regular feedback.
It said these actions demonstrate management’s commitment to responding promptly while pursuing longer-term solutions to challenges relating to cafeteria services, water supply and internet connectivity.
”Management will continue to monitor implementation, engage relevant service providers and stakeholders, and provide further updates as progress is made. We appreciate the Students’ Union’s engagement, staff cooperation, and the support of MOHERST, Nawec, and other partners as the University works to resolve these issues,” it said.
