The Vice Chancellor of the University of The Gambia has sent a letter to the Inspector General of Police, Seedy Muctarr Touray, requesting the deployment of police officers to provide surveillance and protection at the UTG Campus in Kanfing. This request comes in light of heightened tensions following the dismissal of two prominent lecturers over allegations of misconduct.
In a letter written by the UTG VC, Professor Herbert Robinson, and intercepted by TAT, the VC said: “While we strive to maintain a conducive environment for learning, teaching, and research, we recognize such decisions can sometimes lead to heightened tension and potential security concerns.”
The request came after UTG Faculty and Staff Association members (UTGFSA) announced their intention to take industrial action in response to the abrupt dismissal of two senior and long-serving members: Dr. Alieu Gibba, former President of the UTGFSA and Associate Professor Matarr Njie the UTGFSA’s Financial Controller.
In a letter, the VC expressed concern and wrote, “Given the nature of this matter and potential for unseen challenge, we kindly request the deployment of police personnel to provide surveillance and protection at the UTG Kanfing campus. This measure is essential to safeguard students, staff, and visitors and to ensure the continued smooth operation of our academic and administrative activities.”
Furthermore, the UTG Lecturers Association warns that if a meaningful resolution is not reached within fourteen days’ notice, it will be forced to take industrial action to protect the interests of its members and the broader university community.
A source within the student leadership at UTG informed Alkamba Times that many students are upset with the management’s decision to fire two of their valued lecturers. The students are also considering ways to organize a protest against this decision.
When asked about their protest plans, the Student leader stated they are currently consulting among themselves to coordinate actions, which will soon be communicated to both the students and the management.
Gibba and Njie, through their legal counsel Malick Jallow, have filed an unlawful dismissal case against the University of The Gambia, listed as the first defendant, and Bobo Baldeh, the acting Registrar at the Kanifing Industrial Tribunal, as the second defendant. The tribunal is expected to hear the lawsuit on December 9, 2024.
They are claiming that the university’s dismissal of them was unlawful, unfair, malicious, and contrary to the principles of natural justice, ultimately constituting a breach of their employment.
