Mariatou Ngum
The Honorable Minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment (MoTIE) has applauded the ECOWAS Commission for its continued efforts to strengthening regional partnerships to enhance the prosperity of its Member States, and its continuous investment in Human Capital Development ensuring industry relevance and creating employment opportunities for young graduates.
Mr Joof was speaking during the presentation of certificates in a recent ceremony marking the end of a 12-month programme of the ECOWAS Nnamdi Azikiwe Academic Mobility Scheme (ENAAMS), at the Ministry’s ground in Banjul.
The scholarship programme, funded by the ECOWAS Commission through its Department of Human Development and Social Affairs, is a result of the new vision 2050 that the Commission has adopted, which aims for a fully integrated community of people, living in a peaceful and prosperous region, with strong institutions, upholding fundamental freedoms and rights, working towards inclusive and sustainable development. This goal necessitates increased programme efficiency and human capital investment for sustainable development.
Further in his opening remarks, Minister Joof, said this initiative by ECOWAS Commission further complements Government’s efforts in encouraging young graduates and students in the area of Technical and Vocational Training Programmes (TVET) as a way to strengthen their capacity and increase employability among the youths and the experience of graduates seeking employment opportunities.
He indicated that youths are at the forefront of Gambia’s development agenda and that to leverage and maximise potential, The Gambia is developing a National Human Capital development strategy in line with the ECOWAS regional Human Capital Development strategy, and a National Employment Policy document. These strategic documents, he said, can help harness youth’s talents, through the provision of affordable access to education and skills training, as well as the creation of employment opportunities that provide decent salaries and working conditions to further motivate and retain young talent.
The Director of Regional Integration at MoTIE; and head of the ECOWAS National Office in The Gambia Ndeye Tabara Touray, revealed that the programme has supported 12 students, six final-year students, and six graduates who are attached to industries related to their field of study to gain more practical experience.
According to her, the scholarship programme was merit-based and was conducted with support from the National Coordinating Committee, who provided them with the necessary data; and the Department of Education, Science, and Culture of the ECOWAS Commission, who made the final selection and approval.
Speaking on behalf of the students, Elizabeth Armando, expressed gratitude to the ECOWAS Commission, the Government of The Gambia through MoTIE for the life-changing opportunity that they have received.
