By Abdou Mbye
The Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (MoBSE), in collaboration with the Commonwealth of Learning (CoL), on Thursday, September 19th concluded a two-day validation forum of a draft policy framework on Open and Distance Learning (ODL) and Technology-Enabled Learning in in-service teacher training in The Gambia. The validated operational instrument will guide the management and coordination of ODL programmes for pre-service and in-service teacher training and professional development.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Louis Moses Mendy, Permanent Secretary at MoBSE, lauded the initiative, emphasising that it plays a key role in MoBSE’s ongoing educational reforms. He expressed gratitude to the Commonwealth of Learning for its support, through the In-Service Training (INSET) Unit, to advancing this initiative. PS Mendy further noted that the use of ODL and technology in teaching and learning is becoming central to the ministry’s efforts, particularly in light of the lessons learned during the Covid-19 pandemic. He stressed that digital technology in education is here to stay and will help bridge inequalities in access to quality education.
Mr. Lamin Fatajo, a retired educationist and lead consultant for the programme, explained that ODL provides an alternative learning dimension compared to traditional methods. In his presentation of the ODL draft policy, he highlighted the significance of the policy in facilitating teacher training and professional development. In addition to the validation of the ODL draft policy, participants also reviewed and validated a school leadership and management manual, which provides detailed guidance on effective school management to ensure quality educational management and service delivery in The Gambia. The event brought together multiple stakeholders committed to enhancing the education system through innovative approaches like ODL, which promises to transform the future of education in The Gambia.
