Task force meeting at university to discuss appointment of professors in The Gambia
A task force meeting at the University of Science, Engineering, and Technology (USET) in The Gambia held discussions to finalize the appointment of professors for key positions in the institution. This meeting follows a recent report submitted by a group of Technical Aid Corps (TAC) volunteers from Nigeria, whose professional prowess has been lauded by the university.
Director-General of the National Technical Aid Corps (NTAC), Dr. Yusuf Yakub, emphasized the significance of the volunteer professors’ contribution, which led to the establishment of a task force by the university’s Governing Council. The aim of this task force is to validate the current TAC volunteers in The Gambia and recommend their appointment to fill vacant positions in USET, ensuring the efficient functioning of the university.
The Gambian Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology has formally requested the endorsement of the Nigerian authorities for the appointment of four professors to key roles in the university. The volunteer professors selected for these positions include Prof. Nazmat Surajudeen-Bakinde as Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Yusuf Abdulfatah as Vice-Chancellor (Academics), Prof. Akinlabi Oyetunji as Director of Research and Grants, and Prof. David Gundu as Director of Academic Planning and Quality Assurance.
The deployment of these volunteers to The Gambia is part of Nigeria’s 24-month Technical Aid Corps scheme, aimed at providing technical assistance to the country. This move underscores the strong partnership between The Gambia and Nigeria in the fields of education and technical cooperation. Despite facing challenges, the commitment of both countries to collaboration and knowledge sharing remains unwavering.
The Gambia has been a key participant in the Technical Aid Corps program, having received over 12,000 Nigerian volunteers since the inception of the scheme in 1987. The continued collaboration between the two nations not only enhances academic and technical capabilities but also fosters diplomatic ties and mutual understanding.
The upcoming appointment of these professors in USET signifies a significant milestone in the academic partnership between Nigeria and The Gambia. The expertise and dedication of the TAC volunteers pave the way for a brighter future for the university, driving innovation, research, and academic excellence in the region. The task force meeting marks a pivotal moment in the journey towards strengthening educational institutions and fostering sustainable development in The Gambia.