By Fatoumata Joof
The Ministry of Higher Education Research Science and Technology, in collaboration with the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education recently launched a three-day education technology master class designed to provide Gambian educators with the tools and skills to integrate cutting-edge educational technologies into their teaching practices.
The workshop, under the Virtual Reality Pilot Project and themed “Empowering Gambian Educators through Emerging Educational Technologies”, brought together 100 educators who were trained on the use of VR and other digital tools to enhance teaching effectiveness and student engagement. By training master trainers, this workshop ensures a sustainable network of educators who will continue to spread the knowledge and skills across the education sector.
Speaking at the University of Education campus in Brikama, during the launching, the Minister of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, Professor Pierre Gomez, said the initiative marked a pivotal moment in The Gambia’s journey towards a modern, technology-driven education system, ensuring that students and educators are equipped with the tools and skills necessary to thrive in the digital era. Minister Gomez emphasised that education is the foundation of national development and that in today’s fast-evolving world, the integration of innovative digital solutions is no longer an option but an imperative.
He said the VR Pilot Project, being implemented in collaboration with Avantis Education UK, represents a major step in revolutionising the country’s learning experiences, offering students the opportunity to immerse themselves in interactive, real-world simulations that enhance comprehension and critical thinking.
In the same vein, Minister Gomez highlighted the significance of the training workshop on the Use of Emerging Educational Technologies (EdTech) for effective teaching and quality of education. “By training 100 master trainers, we are laying the foundation for a sustainable network of educators who will further train their peers, creating a ripple effect of transformation across our education sector”, he stated.
This initiative, he explained, aligns seamlessly with his Ministry’s broader vision of leveraging digital solutions to enhance learning outcomes, increase teacher capacity, and ultimately improve the quality of education in The Gambia.
Minister Gomez commended ICESCO for enhancing education in The Gambia and for generously funding this workshop. He also commended Avantis Education UK for bringing their expertise and cutting-edge VR solutions to the project, ensuring that educators and students have access to world-class technology.
