In a landmark move to enhance the quality of education in The Gambia, Hon. Dr. Habibatou Drame, Minister of Basic and Secondary Education, officially inaugurated the nation’s first Professional Standard Board for Teachers today. The historic event marks a significant step toward improving teaching standards and ensuring quality education for every child.
The board, established under the Education Act of 2018, is tasked with upholding high professional standards for educators and advocating for their welfare. Leading the board are esteemed educators, including former Education Minister Madame Anne Therese Ndong Jatta, Hon. Sidia Jatta, and eleven other dedicated professionals. This diverse group of seasoned educators is united by a shared commitment to fostering an environment where teachers are motivated, well-trained, and adequately resourced.
During the inauguration, Minister Drame emphasized the board’s critical role in shaping the future of Gambian education. “A thriving education system depends on empowered teachers—those who are continuously trained, well-resourced, and motivated to give their very best,” she stated. Drame expressed gratitude to the board members for taking on the challenge and pledged the Ministry’s full support to ensure their success.
Among the board’s key responsibilities is the establishment of the Teacher Service Commission, which will further strengthen the framework for teacher support and professional development. The board is expected to champion policies that enhance teacher welfare, promote continuous training, and cultivate a culture of professionalism and excellence in classrooms across the country.
The creation of the Professional Standard Board reflects the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education’s (MoBSE) commitment to recognizing teachers as the backbone of the education system. By prioritizing teacher empowerment, the board aims to ensure that every child in The Gambia has access to quality education delivered by dedicated and skilled educators.
As The Gambia takes this bold step, the board’s work is poised to transform the educational landscape, setting a precedent for excellence and accountability in teaching. With the Ministry’s backing, the board is well-positioned to drive meaningful change, ensuring that teachers are equipped to inspire and educate the next generation of Gambian leaders.
The inauguration has been hailed as a historic milestone, signaling a brighter future for education in The Gambia.
