By: Momodou Gagigo
In a vibrant ceremony under the shade of a sprawling mango tree, Saikou Sawo, leader of the Golden Era Party (GEP), today donated scholarships worth 250,000 dalasi to four talented youths from his hometown of Sukuta. The move, aimed at revolutionizing education and empowering the next generation, underscores GEP’s commitment to practical skills amid The Gambia’s economic hurdles.
The scholarships will fund two recipients to pursue diplomas in Electrical Engineering and Plumbing at the University of Applied Science and Technology (USET), formerly known as the Gambia Technical Training Institute (GTTI). These trades are essential for infrastructure development, equipping students with hands-on expertise in high-demand fields. The remaining two will enroll in a comprehensive 5-in-1 Cosmetology Program at Mirrored Aesthetic & Wellness Center, mastering makeup artistry, hair styling, spa and massage therapies, marketing, manicure, and more—skills poised to fuel entrepreneurship in the beauty and wellness sector.
“This is my lifelong pledge to empower our youth with tools for opportunity and independence,” Sawo declared to the gathered crowd of young achievers, community leaders, and families. “I hope that these four students will not only excel in their fields but also give back to their community, inspire others, and contribute to building a stronger, self-reliant Gambia.” He urged locals to support the graduates by promoting their skills in national development, envisioning a ripple effect of mentorship and economic growth.
The initiative aligns with GEP’s broader vision of a “golden future” through youth investment, especially as the 2026 elections approach. Neneh Kebbeh, GEP’s Deputy Party Leader, amplified the message, highlighting the role of education in overcoming national challenges. “Gambians are tired, and we need someone to remedy this,” she asserted passionately. “A new mindset is the only way forward. Every vote needs to be reconsidered—not based on religion or tribe, but on who can truly lead our nation. Gambians should graduate from fake promises. The current government has embezzled millions of dalasis. It’s time for change.”
Beneficiary Muhammad Jammeh, selected from hundreds of applicants for the plumbing program, expressed profound gratitude in an interview with TAT. “I am thrilled and thankful to the donors. I feel fortunate to have been chosen from among hundreds of applicants. I’m one of the four selected to take this course, and I promise to work hard and make the most of this opportunity. This will greatly benefit my life, and I believe that working hard and being educated are key to achieving success. Money can be earned, but the skills and knowledge I gain will stay with me forever.”
Fellow recipient Fatoumata Manneh, heading into cosmetology, addressed the crowd with inspiration. “This scholarship isn’t just support… It’s trust. It reminds us that someone believes in our potential to create value, not only for ourselves but for our community,” she said. Urging peers, she added, “Don’t wait until you feel ready. Growth begins with courage, not perfection.”
GEP positions education as a cornerstone of national progress, believing it fosters a skilled workforce that drives economic growth and improves livelihoods. Attendees praised the event as a beacon of hope for Sukuta’s youth, signaling GEP’s youth-focused agenda in a nation craving tangible change.
