Rédaction Africa Links 24 with babucarr balajo
Published on 2024-03-27 11:01:55
The Crab Island Technical and Vocational Education Training Center in Banjul, The Gambia is setting a remarkable example of an inclusive social project not only for the country but for West Africa as a whole. The center is preparing young men and women for careers as electricians, seamstresses, tailors, plumbers, hairdressers, satellite installers, builders, farmers, and more. These skills are vital for the country to become more self-sufficient, sovereign, and independent.
Led by the former deputy and founder of the Crab Island TVET Foundation, Ousman Sillah, along with director Matarr John and other key figures like economist Mass Jobe and specialist Momodou Bittaye, the school currently has 175 students enrolled in 8 different specialties. The project aims to expand these courses in the future to cater to more young individuals seeking technical skills training.
According to the directors of the center, the initiative was born out of a need in the Banjul neighborhood where young people had limited access to education and job opportunities, leading to social indiscipline and substance abuse. With resources from the founder and some support from the government, partners, and friends, the school has been steadily growing to benefit the community.
Students not only receive theoretical and practical training but also have the opportunity to work in their spare time to earn extra income and improve their living conditions. This approach serves as a way to discourage emigration and provide a better future for the youth and their families in a world that often offers little to those in developing nations.
During a visit to the center, it was evident that the students were dedicated to their studies and displayed a positive attitude even in the face of challenges. The Gambia, with a population of approximately two million, mostly composed of young individuals, greatly benefits from institutions like the Crab Island TVET Center, which serves as a beacon of hope for the continent and other developing regions.
The center’s impact extends beyond just technical skills training; it also instills a sense of purpose and ambition in the students, guiding them towards a brighter future. By empowering the youth with practical skills and opportunities for self-improvement, the Crab Island TVET Center is contributing to the overall development and prosperity of the nation.
In conclusion, the Crab Island Technical and Vocational Education Training Center is a shining example of a grassroots initiative that is making a significant difference in the lives of young Gambians. With a focus on practical education and self-sufficiency, the center is equipping the next generation with the tools they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Through dedication, innovation, and collaboration, projects like these have the power to transform communities and create a more prosperous future for all.
Read the original article on The Standard
