In press release, the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (MoHERST) confirmed that at its level, payments, amounting to 20 Million Dalasi meant to serve as a stimulus package for non-government-funded Gambian students studying abroad, had already been effected.
"These payments were done in two phases: The initial D12, 915, 880, paid on the 5th of May, 2020 was given to 836 Gambian students, and immediately upon approval of the Appropriation Bill by the National Assembly, the Ministry made a second round of payments to 1, 243 Gambian students. This made the combined total of 20 million Dalasi".
Notwithstanding, MoHERST says it is aware of concerns and challenges raised by students studying abroad; especially with regard to the relief package not reaching their end. The Ministry wants to reassure students that funds have already been released from its end. "Students who are yet to receive their shares from the stimulus package should make follow-up with The Gambian embassies in their respective countries of study," the release added.
It further reads: "In these trying times of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ministry of Higher Education understands the frustration and hardships of students affected but urges all to exercise patience, while following up with their respective embassies of study".
Meanwhile, the High Education Ministry assures that it will continue to do all it can to ensure payments are made by the Gambian embassies as soon as possible.