By Abdou Mbye
The Science and Technology Education Directorate (STED) at the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (MoBSE) has embarked on lesson development for foundational learning, focusing on digitalising content for early grade learners (ECD level 1-3 and Grade 1-3), to establish a robust foundation in literacy and numeracy.
Recently held at the Governor’s Office in Mansakonko, the event brought together subject specialists in foundational teaching on literacy and numeracy. The primary objective was to develop scripted lessons that would undergo digitalisation, thereby ensuring the availability of comprehensive teaching and learning resources for foundational learners.
Addressing the participants at the opening ceremony, Mr. Ousman Bah, the Director of Science and Technology Education Directorate, emphasised the pivotal role of the workshop in enhancing the quality of foundational learning. He highlighted the importance of laying a strong foundation for learners at ECD levels and Grades 1-3, emphasising that a solid foundation is crucial for success in numeracy and literacy.
“The task we have is to develop scripted lessons for foundational learning. The approach of the education sector is to revitalise foundational learning because we have seen the foundation of learners is shaking and that is causing problems at upper grades,’’ he said.
Dr. Babou Joof, Principal Education Officer at the Science and Technology Education Directorate (STED) urged participants to dedicate themselves to the task at hand, emphasising the need to produce high-quality lessons that can be easily adapted by teachers in the teaching and learning processes.
“You have been very hard working and cooperative and I have no doubt that you will do the job as expected. Let us develop quality lessons that can be adaptable by every teacher in the teaching and learning processes,” Dr. Joof underscored.
Speaking on behalf of the Regional Education Director, Mr. Ibrahim Shaw, the Principal Education Officer for Administration, expressed gratitude for hosting the event. He noted that good foundation would lead to good performance and urged all to put their attention and energy on the work they are doing so that they can develop a valuable material for the Ministry and the country at large.
