Future Starts Now Gambia Holds 5th Graduation Ceremony
By Tumany Colley
Future Starts Now Gambia (FSNG), a charitable organisation, on Saturday, February 3rd, held its 5th graduation ceremony at the Ebujan Theatre in Kanifing. A total of 200 students from batches 19, 20, 21, and 22 successfully completed their Certificate, Diploma, and Advanced Diploma levels.
FSNG, founded in 2012 by Mr. Samsideen Jatta and Miss Yaana Kapari, focuses on providing 100 percent scholarships for tertiary education in Information Communication Technology (ICT) to underprivileged youth. Sponsored by the Loviisa Charity Group in Finland, the institution has, to date, graduated 4,500 students in ICT and English proficiency.
The event drew notable attendees, including Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly Hon. Seedy Njie, board members of the institution and a representative from the National Accreditation and Quality Assurance Authority (NAQAA), along with the graduates’ family members.
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Lamin Keita, the principal of FSNG, proudly announced that 11 of the institution’s students are now pursuing higher education in ICT, CISCO, and cybersecurity courses abroad. Emphasising the transformative power of ICT in the 21st century, Keita stressed its influence on communication, work, learning, and governance.
He stressed “In the 21st century, ICT has emerged as a driving force behind the progress of nations. It has filled every aspect of our lives, reshaping the way we communicate, work, learn, and govern. As we stand on the threshold of a new chapter in our lives, it’s crucial to recognise and appreciate the transformative power of ICT in shaping the destiny of nations.”
He highlighted ICT’s role in healthcare, socio-economic development, and education, particularly in providing learning opportunities globally. Keita congratulated the graduates, urging them to use their skills for the greater good and maintain professional connections forged at FSNG.
“I strongly encourage you to maintain those professional connections you have made in FSNG: Use your knowledge wisely, be bold and generous in the way you share ideas with others, and always be open to further learning.”
However, Keita also acknowledged challenges, including limited space. He says the school receives tons of applications, especially from “backway” returnees, but the limited space makes it impossible to accept most of them. Inadequate teaching and learning materials are also quite a challenge according to the principal. He appealed for genuine partnerships to address these issues.
Deputy Speaker Seedy SK Njie emphasised the societal expectations from the graduates, citing ICT as a government priority for digitising the economy and reducing corrupt practices. He called for government-private sector collaboration and effective monitoring by NAQAA.
Amadou M. Touray, representing the NAQAA CEO, highlighted their role in ensuring tertiary institutions provide quality education and relevant programs for the workforce.
Omar E. Ceesay, President of the Student Union of FSNG, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn IT free of charge and called for support from individuals, companies, and the government.
Graduate Fatou L. Touray praised FSNG as her second home, emphasising the significant impact it had on her and her colleagues. She expressed pride in her accomplishment and the invaluable support provided by the school.
The ceremony was wrapped up with a play on the importance of education, especially ICT in our Society, and a presentation of Certificates to deserving students.