Advance Basic Cycle School, a private school eminent for academic excellence, recently staged its thirtieth anniversary at Daru Busumbala in Jabang.
Advance was launched on 14 February 1995, during the days of the Armed Forces Provisional Ruling Council (AFPRC) era under then de facto leader Yahya Jammeh.
The school has a humble beginning, starting from the bottom of the ladder. It was launched on that day of February in a small compound in London Corner, Serrekunda.
The school had only four students throughout that entire academic year. However, it weathered the storm to build its own complex in London Corner and subsequently built an annex in Daru Busumbala, Jabang.
Beginning with a nursery, it now operates grade one to nine.
In his discourse, the founder and proprietor of the school, Yusuf Ehi, synthesised the tumultuous path the school has traversed over the three decades. While it has been challenging, he recalls, they have done their best to elevate the school to where it is now.
Mr Ehi stated that he is glad that Advance has academically excelled to prove itself as one of the best private schools in The Gambia. He said they used to look up to Ndow’s Comprehensive School, but now they may be at par or even better.
The principal Mr Eddy, in his statement, expressed great pride, reflecting on the laudable journey of the school over the past three decades.
“Our founder’s vision of creating a world-class institution like this has been surely realised through our outstanding performance, breeding talented students and achieving academic success,” he said. “The past years have been particularly exceptional for our beloved students and the school. The bond between the school management, parents, teachers and students has been excellent. I say kudos to each and every one of us!”
He stated further: “As we celebrate our thirty years of excellence, I express my gratitude to our wonderful staff for their dedication to the students and our school. They are an essential part of our communities, and it is great honour to work alongside them. I am proud of you all, especially many of whom have been with us for a very long time. On behalf of the school management, I wholeheartedly welcome some of you who have recently joined the school. The bond that our staff share has been significant to our success, supporting each other through the highs and lows and keeping us move forward.
“Their commitment, passion and dedication to our students contributed to a hundred percent graduation rate, helping our students not only as technocrat but also as individuals prepared for success in higher education. We are thrilled to announce that Advance Basic Cycle School is celebrating thirtieth anniversary this year. This significant milestone will be marked with a series of decorated events, like the inter-house sports competition among various houses and, of course, our evening parties.”
The principal expressed gratitude to all those who have contributed significantly to the school’s success over the past three decades, expressing optimism over its future.
