SDKJ-ICC, Bijilo | 31 August 2026 — The Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (MoHERST) has convened a Validation Workshop for the National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy (NSTIP) 2027–2035, bringing together key stakeholders to review, validate and strengthen the draft policy.
Opening the workshop, the Honourable Minister of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, Professor Pierre Gomez, outlined the ten priorities underpinning the NSTIP. These include strong STI leadership and institutions; financing for research and innovation; digital infrastructure and cybersecurity; artificial intelligence and emerging technologies; STEM skills development; greater opportunities for women in STI; climate-resilient and green innovation; stronger university-industry linkages; improved data and measurement; and deeper regional and international cooperation.
As part of the validation process, stakeholders also reviewed the draft STI Bill, which provides a legal and institutional framework for advancing science, technology and innovation, including provisions for the establishment of an STI Secretariat at MoHERST and greater opportunities for women and girls in STI.
The THET Fund Executive Director, Dr Jorjoh Ndure-Tambedou, participated in the validation process and delivered a technical review presentation in her capacity as Vice Chairperson of the Technical Working Group.
Her presentation provided an overall assessment of the draft policy, highlighting its key strengths, cross-cutting issues and priority areas requiring further stakeholder consideration. The technical review contributed to the ongoing efforts to refine the policy and ensure that it is practical, inclusive and responsive to The Gambia’s development priorities.
The validation workshop marks an important step in MoHERST’s efforts to advance a stronger national science, technology and innovation framework capable of unlocking The Gambia’s potential and supporting sustainable, knowledge-driven development.
