President Barrow Commissioned USET College of Science and Engineering Building In Brikama 

By Fatou Sillah

President Adama Barrow on Saturday officially commissioned the newly constructed College of Science and Engineering at the University of Applied Science, Engineering, and Technology (USET) in Brikama, describing it as a landmark achievement in advancing The Gambia’s higher education and national development agenda.

Reflecting on the project’s inception, President Barrow recalled, “On the rainy day of 30th July 2022, we converged on this very site with my late Vice President, His Excellency, Badara Alieu Joof, to lay the foundation stone that has resulted in the erection of this edifice. I remember that event with mixed feelings and pray that the gentle soul of the late Vice President continues to rest in peace, with Janatul Firdaus being its final place of abode,” he said.

The President emphasized the strategic significance of the new campus, noting its potential to become a center of innovation, knowledge creation, and skills development critical to the country’s transformation.

“This new campus, equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, materials, tools, furniture, and teaching aids donated by the Bank, is a tangible example of what effective international cooperation can achieve when aligned with national priorities,” he said.

President Barrow underscored that the commissioning of this state-of-the-art, multipurpose facility will greatly strengthen the national infrastructure for science and engineering education. He further affirmed that the initiative is fully aligned with his government’s development agenda.

“It affirms my government’s commitment to investing in quality, relevant, and accessible education for all Gambians, especially in the critical areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM),” he said.

He described the new facility as a beacon of hope, opportunity, and progress. “I consider the facility another exceptional symbol of hope, opportunity, and progress wherein innovation will surely flourish. Within it, knowledge will be created and shared, and young Gambians will be equipped with the skills necessary to build the future of this country.”

President Barrow also highlighted that with the establishment of this college, USET is now able to offer specialized services and educational opportunities that Gambians previously had to seek abroad.

“With relief, USET now offers services that were sought in other countries. Its numerous benefits will contribute largely to developing our economy and spreading outward, Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,” he said.