The Government of The Gambia has unveiled a package of immediate interventions to address long-standing complaints from University of The Gambia students about catering, water, internet, and transport services, following high-level stakeholder talks on 24 October 2026.
The Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (MoHERST) said the measures are part of efforts to restore a safe, supportive learning environment. Officials reaffirmed the government’s commitment to student welfare after consultations that addressed concerns raised on the Faraba Campus.
Catering services will resume on campus as an interim step, with previous providers or alternatives beginning deliveries from Monday, 26 October. University management will continue procurement of long-term operators to prevent further interruptions. Students have reported difficulties accessing food six weeks into the semester, with management previously citing an ongoing bidding process that student leaders say could have been completed during the holiday period.
On water supply, the university will install additional dispensers across campus for immediate relief. The National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC) and university management have been directed to identify and implement sustainable technical solutions to strengthen infrastructure and reliability.
The university will improve internet connectivity by immediately engaging telecommunications providers. The university will also maximize use of the Gambia Research and Education Network (GAMREN) to expand access to global educational and research resources, recognizing the role of reliable connectivity in teaching and innovation.
For transportation, the Gambia Transport Service Company (GTSC) will deploy its full fleet of 20 buses from Monday, 26 October, to ease mobility challenges. The government will continue discussions with stakeholders to review arrangements and develop longer-term solutions.
Ismaila Fadera, President of the University of The Gambia Student Union, highlighted the urgency of the issues in a statement. “Six weeks into the semester, students at Faraba Campus continue to struggle to access food, while Management responds that the bidding process for cafeteria operators is ongoing, a process that could have been completed during the holidays to prevent this situation,” he said.
Fadera added that students plan to meet management in Kanifing on Monday to demand accountability and proper service. He noted that prior engagements with authorities are documented and available for review, stressing that “Student welfare cannot continue to be neglected under my administration.”
The ministry said the interventions followed extensive consultations and form part of ongoing efforts to strengthen service delivery. It encouraged continued dialogue among all stakeholders as it implements the measures.
The announcement comes amid persistent student complaints about basic campus facilities. While the government has outlined concrete short-term steps with clear start dates, student leaders said they will push for accountability and lasting improvements, particularly in food services that affect daily life on the Faraba Campus.
