President Barrow Inaugurates Phase Two of UTG Faraba Banta Campus, Reaffirms Commitment to Education
President Barrow at the inauguration
By Seedy Jobe
President Adama Barrow has inaugurated Phase Two of The University of The Gambia (UTG) Faraba Banta Campus, describing the development as a major milestone in the country’s drive to expand access to quality higher education and strengthen human capital development.
Speaking at the ceremony, President Barrow said the new campus infrastructure reflects the government’s long-term vision and strategic investment in education as a catalyst for national transformation. “This magnificent campus now stands out visibly as a living testament to our visionary leadership, strategic investment, and collective belief that knowledge is instrumental to national transformation,” he said.
The President noted that the expansion underscores the government’s resolve to invest in people and secure the country’s future. Phase Two of the campus comprises the Akinwumi Adesina School of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, the Faculty of Law, and the Chancery Building. The facilities are equipped with modern laboratories to support agricultural research and innovation, as well as a state-of-the-art moot court to enhance legal education and practical training.
According to President Barrow, the School of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences is designed to empower students and researchers to advance innovation in food security and climate resilience. He added that the Faculty of Law will play a critical role in strengthening justice, the rule of law, and human rights by improving the training of legal professionals in the country.
Looking ahead, the president announced plans for Phase Three of the Faraba Banta Campus, which will include the construction of a School of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences. He said the new institution will feature world-class facilities and laboratories aimed at significantly improving medical education, research, and healthcare delivery. “When completed, the new School of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences is expected to revolutionize medical training and health research in The Gambia and significantly strengthen our national health system,” he stated.
President Barrow called on the UTG community to make full and responsible use of the new facilities, urging students and staff to pursue academic excellence, creativity, and service to society. He also highlighted government initiatives established to support students and research, including the Student Revolving Loan Scheme and the National Research and Innovation Fund.
The President expressed gratitude to development partners, notably the Islamic Development Bank and the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), for their financial support, describing their contribution as a strong example of the value of international cooperation in advancing education. He further commended the Minister of Higher Education, the UTG Governing Council, and host communities for their roles in the successful completion of the project.
Declaring Phase Two of the UTG Faraba Banta Campus officially inaugurated, President Barrow expressed hope that the university would continue to grow as a centre of knowledge, innovation, and discovery for The Gambia and the wider sub-region. He challenged students to remain purposeful, disciplined, and industrious in their studies, with a focus on addressing national challenges and uplifting their communities.