26/08/2026
OPINION: A CONCERNING LOOK AT THE GAMBIA’S EDUCATION SYSTEM - PART 1
I have been informed by someone familiar with the situation on the ground, whose name cannot be mentioned, about some serious challenges affecting schools across The Gambia.
These are issues that deserve public attention not to attack anyone, but to encourage discussion and action.
1. Teachers’ Accommodation
It is heartbreaking to see the conditions some teachers are expected to live in, particularly when you travel to schools in the provinces. Poor accommodation and uncomfortable living conditions can have a direct impact on teachers’ morale, wellbeing and ultimately their performance.
We cannot expect teachers to give their best when their basic needs are not adequately addressed.
2. Serious Shortage of Furniture
The shortage of desks and chairs in some provincial schools is alarming. In some cases, schools reportedly go 15-20 years or more without receiving adequate furniture.
How can we expect students to concentrate, participate and learn effectively when they are sitting in uncomfortable or unsuitable conditions?
A proper learning environment should not be a luxury.
3. Shortage of Teachers
Teacher shortages remain another major concern.
Effective teaching and learning becomes extremely difficult when there are not enough teachers to meet the needs of students. While teacher student ratios may be used as a guideline, they may not always reflect the realities of individual schools.
For example, schools with relatively small enrolment can still face serious challenges when teachers have to rotate between classes or subjects.
4. Unpaid Auxiliary Staff
Another issue is the situation of auxiliary workers who have reportedly spent two, three or even more years working without receiving their salaries.
This creates a difficult situation for schools. Students should be focused on learning, not carrying the burden of maintaining the school environment because there are not enough paid support staff.
Even Mothers’ Clubs and other community groups cannot reasonably be expected to clean and maintain schools every day, week after week.
Education is the foundation of The Gambia’s future.
These concerns deserve serious attention, open discussion and practical solutions. Our teachers need support. Our students deserve proper learning environments. And our schools need the resources necessary to function effectively.
This is only Part 1.
Part 2 will look at more challenges affecting the education system in The Gambia.
What is your experience with schools in the provinces?
Have you witnessed any of these challenges?
Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments. 👇
