Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Mr. Gaye TheVoice
Published on 2024-03-22 05:39:53
Mariatou Ngum recently completed the ENAAMS Scholarship Programme and was awarded certification for her achievement. The Minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment (MoTIE), Mr. Baboucarr Ousmaila Joof, lauded the ECOWAS Commission for its ongoing efforts to strengthen regional partnerships and enhance the prosperity of its Member States. The ECOWAS Commission has been investing in Human Capital Development to ensure industry relevance and create employment opportunities for young graduates.
The presentation of certificates marking the end of the 12-month ECOWAS Nnamdi AzikiweAcademic Mobility Scheme (ENAAMS) took place at the Ministry’s ground. This scholarship programme is funded by the ECOWAS Commission through its Department of Human Development and Social Affairs. The ENAAMS programme aligns with ECOWAS’s vision for 2050, aiming for a fully integrated and prosperous region with strong institutions, fundamental freedoms, and sustainable development.
Minister Joof emphasized the importance of this initiative in complementing the Government of The Gambia’s efforts to encourage young graduates in Technical and Vocational Training Programmes (TVET) to increase their employability. The ECOWAS Commission’s programme supports graduates seeking employment opportunities and empowers them with practical skills through industry attachments related to their field of study.
The Gambia is currently developing a National Human Capital Development strategy in alignment with the ECOWAS regional Human Capital Development strategy and a National Employment Policy document. These strategic documents aim to harness youth talents by providing access to education and skills training, creating employment opportunities with decent salaries and working conditions to motivate and retain young talent.
Ndeye Tabara Touray, the director of Regional Integration at MoTIE and head of the ECOWAS National Office in The Gambia, highlighted the support provided to 12 students through the ENAAMS programme. Six final-year students who completed their programme and six graduates were attached to industries related to their field of study to gain practical experience. The scholarship programme was merit-based and conducted with support from the National Coordinating Committee and the Department of Education, Science, and Culture of the ECOWAS Commission.
Elizabeth Armando, speaking on behalf of the students, expressed gratitude to the ECOWAS Commission and the Government of The Gambia through MoTIE for the life-changing opportunity they received. The students acknowledged the impact of the programme on their personal and professional development.
In conclusion, the ENAAMS Scholarship Programme has played a vital role in enhancing the skills and employability of young graduates in The Gambia. The collaboration between the ECOWAS Commission, the Government of The Gambia, and the students themselves showcases a commitment to fostering human capital development and creating sustainable employment opportunities for the youth.
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