There were dramatic scenes at the Kanifing campus of The University The Gambia where hundreds of students staged a demonstration demanding a solution to their concerns over catering services, water supply and other conditions at the Faraba campus.
Carrying their grievances to the authorities, the protesters carried placards showing their many grievances and chanted the “VC must go, we are not animals”, insisting also that they deserve better treatment, dignity and respect.
The protesters argued that access to adequate catering services, a reliable water supply and other essential facilities was important to their well-being and academic experience and urged the university administration to implement practical measures to improve students’ living conditions.
In a petition presented to Higher Education Minister Prof Pierre Gomez, (himself a highly respected former lecturer at the university credited with many innovations in the education sector), the students through their Union, expressed frustration over what they described as prolonged inaction despite repeated engagements with the relevant authorities.
“The Union has engaged, written, met and waited. It will not wait any longer,” the petition stated.
The Union also issued deadlines for addressing the concerns, warning that failure to meet its demands will result in continued protests and the suspension of lectures across the University.
Meanwhile, Minister Gomez himself turned up at the demonstration saying he needed to come as a responsible authority no matter what, with a view to resolving the issues.
In a press release shared yesterday, the minister said his ministry acknowledges the concerns raised by the students during the protest regarding student welfare and essential university services.
“The Ministry recognises the importance of reliable transportation, catering services, water supply, internet connectivity and adequate learning facilities in supporting students’ academic progress. These issues require continued attention, effective coordination and practical solutions involving the relevant institutions”.
According to him, over the years, significant efforts have been made to advance higher education in The Gambia.
Minister Gomez, who was commended for braving the storm to meet the raging crowd of protesters, added that investments in university infrastructure, including the development of the University of The Gambia’s Faraba Banta Campus, have strengthened the country’s capacity to provide tertiary education.
“These interventions reflect an ongoing commitment to expanding educational opportunities, strengthening institutions and preparing Gambians with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute to national development,” he said in the statement.
He added that the Ministry will continue working with UTG Management, the Students’ Union and relevant stakeholders to review outstanding issues, assess the implementation of existing interventions and identify areas requiring further action.
