The Students’ Revolving Loan Scheme Bill, 2024, with changes, was approved by the National Assembly of The Gambia on Friday, signaling a significant change in policy intended to increase access to postsecondary and higher education nationwide.
Professor Pierre Gomez, Minister of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology, introduced the bill, which made it through the second reading and deliberation stages before lawmakers approved it.
The Act aims to create a sustainable loan program that would allow Gambian students, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds, to pay their post-secondary education. This is intended to alleviate long-standing disparities in access to higher education. It emphasizes fair access and gender inclusion in particular.
Every year, hundreds of Gambian students graduate from secondary school with plans to continue their education, but many are unable to do so because of financial limitations. The Ministry of Higher Education oversees the administration of current government scholarships, which are inadequate to satisfy the rising demand, as the bill recognizes.
Eligible students will have access to loans under the new program to help pay for their education. In order to establish a revolving fund that can assist future generations, these loans are to be paid back upon graduation and productive employment—a concept intended to promote long-term self-sustainability.
It is anticipated that The Gambia’s efforts to increase educational access, empower young people, and create a more inclusive knowledge economy will be anchored by the Students’ Revolving Loan Scheme.
