By: Alieu Ceesay
Gambian students pursuing their studies in Russia and Morocco are experiencing considerable financial difficulties. This is mainly due to a delay in the disbursement of their annual stipend, which they typically receive by May.
As of August, these students say they have yet to receive the funds they depend on to cover essential expenses such as groceries and accommodation. This delay has placed an undue burden on the students, impacting their ability to support themselves while pursuing their education abroad adequately.
The Union of Gambian Students in Russia and Morocco has contacted the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology, urging prompt intervention amid concerns that the stipend may have been redirected for other purposes within the Ministry.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Higher Education, in a statement reacting to the student’s complaints, said: “On the Moroccan students’ top-up, records indicate that the Office of Accountant General (Treasury) transferred the funds to the Central Bank of The Gambia on August 19, 2024, for onward transmission to the Gambian Embassy in Morocco. MoHERST is also aware that the Gambian Embassy in Morocco has been in communication with the Treasury on the same transfer.”
Awa Conteh, the Secretary General of Gambian Students in Morocco, highlighted the students’ resilience despite the challenges. She said that some renting students are currently at risk of eviction by landlords due to delays in rent payments. This has forced some people to squat with friends who receive support from family in the meantime.
“Some are even struggling with food, to mention a few. Also, the academic year begins in a week or two, and the stipend is required for preparation. In a country with no family to rely on for immediate help, this issue has caused a lot of trauma and frustration.”
She added that final-year students are more affected by this dilemma if the issue of required documentation remains critical.
Gambian students studying in Russia explain the same scenario to TAT. Russia is currently facing global sanctions due to its Ukraine conflict.
“The sanction on Russia makes it hard for students to receive money from their families. The normal way of moving money in and out of Russia is not available. It’s difficult for students to balance their studies and work due to the workload and schedule,” Bakary Sonko, a Gambian student studying in Russia, shared, highlighting the students’ dedication to their studies despite the challenges.
Both Gambian students in Russia and Morocco said they have consistently written to the Ministry of Higher Education Research Science and Technology for support, but their efforts remain unsuccessful, exacerbated by their economic hardship.
