By Abdou Mbye
African Solidarity for Action (ASFA) International e.v., a Gambian-Germany-based International Organisation founded by Gambian students in Germany on Friday, 19 January 2024 donated Smart technological gadgets to Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (MoBSE). The presentation was done at at Aji Sukai Ndateh Senior Secondary School in Bakau.
The donated materials include smart boards, whiteboards, printers, and projectors. The gadgets are meant to bolster the use of smart technology in the teaching and learning processes in schools.
Speaking at the presentation ceremony, the Minister of Basic and Secondary Education, Hon Claudiana A. Cole expressed gratitude for the gesture, citing the significance of the accessories in supporting educational advancement in The Gambia particularly digital learning.
“We are in the world of technology and The Gambia cannot be left behind. During COVID, children were at home and we were able to meet them through digital learning. We cannot thank Mr. Kijera and his Organisation enough because it is putting us on the right footing [in terms of] digital learning,” Minister Cole remarked.
In his remarks on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, the Deputy Permanent Secretary for Administration, Mr. Sang Gomez affirmed the Ministry’s appreciation and gratitude to the donors for the support, calling it a milestone opportunity in advancing digital education.
Sheriffo Kijera, the Chairman of ASFA International e.v., posited that the organisation aims at tackling challenges faced by many Gambians in Germany, as well as fighting against illegal migration from The Gambia by investing in education and healthcare.
“We started with donation of furniture to Gunjur Health Centre and Gunjur Lower Basic School. When we got back to Germany, we tried all our best to get these materials for ministry to enhance digital education”, he expounded.
Mr Kijera thanked partners for their support in providing the materials to MoBSE and urged for more support from his fellows in the diaspora to enhance better education in The Gambia.