How do you prepare students in The Gambia for a future career in sustainable tourism and food processing?
Together with our partners (The Gambia College, Gambian Songhai Initiative (GSI), LICEUL TEHNOLOGIC HARLAU) in the G.R.E.E.N. Gambia project, we evaluated the pilot implementation of four new TVET programs in Food Processing, Eco Tourism, Entrepreneurship and Job Readiness Training at The Gambia College and Gambia Songhai Initiative. The evaluation included interviews, observations and surveys with students and teaching staff.
Student learning outcomes and personal development
Students explained that they gained many practical skills they could immediately apply in their own communities and future businesses. For instance, some students already started producing and selling food products such as yoghurt or pepper sauce, while others developed concrete business ideas in the areas of eco tourism and agriculture. Beyond these technical skills, students told that they significantly grew in their confidence, communication and presentation skills.
Insights from teaching staff
Teachers also responded positively to the new program. They expressed that the biggest advantage of the program is the strong connection between classroom and practical learning. Practical assignments, field visits and entrepreneurship activities were identified as key success factors. In addition, the program is strongly connected to local communities and local labor market opportunities. This makes the programs relevant and interesting for students.
Thank you to the project partners, students and teaching staff for their openness, collaboration and energy!
