By Landing Ceesay
The Media Academy for Journalism and Communication (MAJaC) graduated Sixteen (16) students in Filming and Photography.
Sang Mendy, the Managing Director of MAJaC said the creative industries, which include filming and photography, arts and crafts, advertising, design, entertainment, architecture, books, media and software development, have become a vital force in accelerating human development.
Mr Mendy said the creative industries empower people to take ownership of their own development and stimulate the innovation that can drive inclusive sustainable growth.
“If well-nurtured Mr Chair, the creative economy can be a source of structural economic transformation, socio-economic development, job creation and innovation; while contributing to social inclusion and sustainable human development. It is correct to state that the creative industries are critical to the sustainable development agenda.
They stimulate innovation and diversification, they are an important factor to the growing services sector, and they support entrepreneurship, and contribute to cultural diversity,” he told the graduating students.
The MAJaC Managing Director further said the Gambia as a country, must invest heavily in building capacities in the creative industries saying, “the entrepreneurs do not only have the potential to address some of mankind’s basic needs, but they can do it while fueling economies on a global scale”.
Mr. Mendy said the creative industries are a multi-million dollar industry; thus, acquiring skills in the area gives you an edge over many others.
“You must constantly use the knowledge and skills gained, explore new avenues and be prepared to face challenges. Receiving training is one step forward, understanding what you were taught and the willingness to explore new avenues is what will make the difference.
“Your services would always be needed. So I challenge you all to not fold your hands. Be a shining light, lead the way, and be the change we and our partners envisage. We at MAJaC, YEP and ITC expect nothing less from you all,” he told the graduating students.
Meanwhile, Panneh Ngonneh, ICT representative said the International Trade Centre through EU funded Youth Employment Project has over the years put great emphasis on strengthening national institutions and structures, enhancing employability and self employment opportunities, spur growth, economic development, and sustainability through skills development that is able to foster growth for the Gambia.
Ms. Ngonneh said ICT recognizes the value of the creative industries as a great treasure of human intelligence representing the essence of creativity that allows generations to express themselves, demonstrating the power of knowledge that gives the opportunity to share the country’s uniqueness as a nation.
“To our proud graduates, I say congratulations and well done for staying in the course and finishing the race. You have earned the right to celebrate this important achievement and by all means do so in moderation. There is no doubt having come this, you have burnt thousands of the midnight candles. You have had to obediently follow instructions from your lecturers to complete your programmes successfully. This is a moment every parent would want to witness and cherish in their quest to secure a brighter future for their children,” she said.
The students underwent nine (9) months of intensive training in Filming and photography course.
The project is sponsored by the International Trade Centre (ICT) through the European Union-funded Youth Employment Project (YEP).
The ceremony took place earlier on Friday at NAQAA
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