On September 22, 2026, Dr. Habibatou Drammeh, the Minister of Basic and Secondary Education in Gambia, emphasized the importance of protecting instructional time in schools. At a media briefing discussing the 2026 Gambia Basic Education Certificate Examination (GABECE) results, Dr. Drammeh urged schools to reduce non-essential activities that take teachers and students away from the classroom. This move aims to improve learning outcomes by ensuring consistent attendance and uninterrupted classroom engagement.
Dr. Drammeh highlighted that the Ministry is working to minimize activities not directly related to teaching and learning. By doing so, the Ministry seeks to prioritize classroom time, which is vital for enhancing the quality of education. The Minister's comments come as part of the Ministry's efforts to address challenges facing the education sector and to implement ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening teaching and learning.
In addition to prioritizing classroom time, Dr. Drammeh announced plans to introduce local languages alongside English at the early childhood level. This bilingual approach is designed to help children better understand lessons and reduce reliance on rote memorization. By exposing young learners to both English and local languages from the start of their education, the Ministry aims to create a more effective learning environment.
The introduction of local languages is part of a broader strategy to improve education in Gambia. Dr. Drammeh expressed confidence that these measures, combined with ongoing reforms, will strengthen teaching and learning in the years ahead. The Ministry's plans are expected to have a positive impact on the education sector, ultimately leading to better learning outcomes for students.
The 2026 GABECE results were presented during the media briefing, providing insights into the current state of education in Gambia. While specific details about the results were not disclosed, the Minister's comments suggest that the Ministry is committed to addressing any challenges facing the education sector. By prioritizing classroom time and introducing local languages, the Ministry aims to create a more effective and efficient education system.
Dr. Drammeh's call to action for schools to prioritize learning time is a key aspect of the Ministry's efforts to improve education. By working together with schools and stakeholders, the Ministry aims to create a supportive learning environment that allows students to thrive. The Minister's emphasis on protecting classroom time reflects the Ministry's commitment to providing high-quality education for all students in Gambia.
The Ministry's plans to introduce local languages and prioritize classroom time are expected to have a lasting impact on education in Gambia. As the Ministry continues to implement reforms and address challenges facing the education sector, students and teachers can expect to see positive changes in the years ahead. With a focus on improving learning outcomes and creating a more effective education system, the Ministry is working to ensure that all students in Gambia have access to high-quality education.
Key points
- Gambia's Education Minister Dr. Habibatou Drammeh urges schools to prioritize learning time by minimizing non-essential activities.
