Higher education ministry spends over D5.9 million on university online learning

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By SULAYMAN WAAN

The government through the Ministry of Higher Education Research, Science and Technology (MoHERST) has spent five million, nine hundred and sixty thousand, one hundred and forty dalasi (D5, 960,140) on the University of The Gambia (UTG) online learning to ensure the students continue to take lessons despite the COVID-19 pandemic.

MoHERST confirmed this at a joint press conference with the Ministry of Finance and Economy Affairs (MOFEA) and the UTG on Tuesday.

The 5.9 million dalasi covers data sum, additional laptops among other expenses to ensure the smooth implementation of the online classes.

Recently President Barrow declared a state of emergency and banned all public gatherings and ordered for the closure of all schools including the University of The Gambia.

Speaking to journalists, Mod A.K Secka, Permanent Secretary at MoHERST said as long as COVID 19 is ongoing the ministry deems it necessary to put measures in place for higher students to continue learning.

“The ministry had negotiated with the GSM operators to supply some megabytes to the registered students for research on the internet,” he said.

Dr Muhammad Anjum Chaudhry, vice chancellor of the UTG said: “Six thousand and eighty-four (6084) students have currently registered for the online classes and more than three hundred (300) teachers are prepared for the lectures on April 20th.

He said the lecturers are well trained on video lectures and how to post videos on the internet, adding that the examination will be face to face by June as the pandemic expected to end before that time.

Mrs Juldeh Ceesay, deputy permanent secretary at the MOFEA said the process is going to be supported in the period of three months.