MoHERST Convenes Validation Workshop on TVET and Gender Equality Regulations

By Makutu Manneh

The Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (MoHERST) on Tuesday convened a validation workshop to review two draft regulations aimed at strengthening technical education and enhancing female participation in tertiary institutions.

The workshop brought together stakeholders from government, academia, civil society, the private sector, and development partners to examine the draft Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Regulations and the draft Gender Equality, Equity and Inclusion Regulations. Both frameworks are aligned with the National TVET Policy 2021–2030 and the National Strategy for Increased Female Participation in Tertiary and Higher Education and Decision-Making 2025–2029.

Opening the session, the Minister of Higher Education, Professor Pierre Gomez, described the workshop as a significant milestone in efforts to transform The Gambia’s tertiary and higher education sector.

He emphasised the importance of stakeholder ownership and collaboration in ensuring the successful implementation of the proposed regulations, urging participants to provide constructive feedback to strengthen the drafts ahead of their finalisation and enactment.

Professor Gomez reaffirmed MoHERST’s commitment to working with partners to advance technical and vocational education, promote gender equality and inclusion, and build a more responsive and competitive tertiary education system.

The proposed TVET Regulations outline a framework for the coordination and development of technical and vocational education in the country. Key provisions include the establishment of a TVET Unit within MoHERST and the creation of a National TVET Committee. The draft also prioritises enhanced teacher training, curriculum alignment with labour market demands, and the expansion of internship and apprenticeship opportunities.

In addition, the regulations seek to promote equitable access to education and skills training, particularly for girls, women, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups.

Meanwhile, the draft Gender Equality, Equity and Inclusion Regulations aim to institutionalise gender-responsive planning, budgeting, monitoring, and reporting across tertiary institutions. Proposed measures include the establishment of Gender and Inclusion Units, affirmative action to boost female participation in STEM and TVET programmes, mentorship initiatives, gender-sensitive infrastructure, and financial support for women and other underrepresented groups.

The validation workshop continues with technical sessions and stakeholder consultations to further refine the regulations ahead of their adoption.