The National Assembly of The Gambia in Banjul Tuesday hosted members of the University of The Gambia Students Union Legislative Body (UTGSULB) in a pioneering collaboration effort to ensure student leadership development.
The UTGSU-LB, comprised of representative students from the twelve schools and faculties in the UTG, is tasked with addressing student welfare issues.
The National Assembly clerk and other key officials of the country’s apex law and policy-making body received the delegation. Led by speaker Ebrima Sillah, the student delegation discussed forging partnership with the National Assembly to enhance their understanding of legislative procedures, decision-making processes and best practices. They hope the collaboration would strengthen efficiency in serving the interests of thousands of students at the UTG.
The delegation also discussed ways for mentorship and internship opportunities for university students who serve in the Legislative Body.
Clerk Kalipha M.M. Mbaye, while iterating the National Assembly’s role in promoting democratic governance and accountable leadership, gracefully hailed the visit, commending the delegation for their pragmatism by seeking practical knowledge for application.
Clerk Mbye expressed his appreciation for the visit and emphasised the National Assembly’s role in promoting democracy and accountability. The UTG-LB delegation, led by its Speaker, discussed potential partnerships and praised the Clerk’s swift engagement.
The visit proved fruitful, with the university students’ commitment being met by perhaps a greater commitment from Parliament’s end.
The National Assembly assured the delegation of mentorship programmes, access to parliamentary sittings for exposure, internships, among other edifying experiences.
Moreover, the clerk pledged that the National Assembly would provide expert trainers for future LB training programs. He urged for a formalisation of the bilateral relations by inking a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
The Assembly facilitated a tour of the facilities within its premise, which enabled students familiarise themselves with the physical structures of the institution. The day’s convergence culminated in expression of shared commitment to sustain the relations established for mutual benefit of both parties and for the broader national interest through enhance governance and administrative systems.
