By Alieu Ceesay
Seven schools from Niamina East and West have embarked on a transformative study tour, visiting key state and non-state institutions across The Gambia to deepen students’ understanding of their nation’s history and human rights landscape. ActionAid International, The Gambia, organized the initiative through its Local Rights Program office in Kudang, Central River Region, South. It involves over 60 students and teachers from five upper basic and basic cycle schools, as well as two senior secondary schools.
The tour, funded by ActionAid, aims to provide firsthand exposure to institutions that shape The Gambia’s cultural, historical, and governance framework. Participating schools include Dankunku Senior Secondary School, Sambang Senior Secondary School, Jissadi Upper Basic School, Jaring Upper Basic School, Mamut Fana Upper Basic School, Kudang Upper Basic School, and Sambelkunda Upper Basic School. These schools’ human rights clubs, trained to advocate for rights within and beyond their communities, are at the heart of the initiative.
Saiba T. Suso, Programme Manager for Local Rights Programme 8 and 11, emphasized the tour’s purpose during an interview at Banjul International Airport. “This tour is designed to deepen students’ understanding of our country and its historical significance,” Suso said. “Visiting institutions like the National Human Rights Commission and the international airport gives students insights into what The Gambia encompasses.”
The tour has already made stops at the Senegambia Bridge, where students learned about its role and the surrounding mangroves, the former president’s residence in Kanilai, ActionAid International, The Gambia, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), and Banjul International Airport. Next on the itinerary is a planned visit to Kunta Kinte Island in the North Bank Region. At the NHRC, students engaged directly with commissioners, gaining valuable skills and knowledge to advocate for human rights effectively.
Suso expressed satisfaction with the warm reception from visited institutions, noting their commitment to enriching students’ understanding. The NHRC, in particular, played a pivotal role in equipping students with practical advocacy tools. The five-day tour, anticipated to become an annual event, has been hailed as a vital educational experience.
Bakary Ceesay, a teacher at Sambel Kunda Upper Basic Cycle School, described the tour as “an eye-opener” for the students. “Visiting these historical sites will enhance their classroom learning,” he said. “Many have only heard about these places; now they can see them firsthand.” Similarly, Elimane Sowe, a Jarreng Upper Basic School student, expressed excitement: “I’ve learned about these places in class, and now I get to see them in person. It’s thrilling.”
The initiative highlights the significance of experiential learning in promoting civic awareness and advocacy among young Gambians. By connecting classroom knowledge with real-world experiences, the tour is equipping students to become informed and active citizens. As the group continues its journey, the impact of these visits is expected to resonate in classrooms and communities across Niamina, strengthening the next generation’s commitment to human rights and national pride.
