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Eight Gambian women musicians to perform live at the Women's Unite Festival

Eight Gambian female musicians will perform at a live band concert dub Unite festival in September. The festival is being organised by Music in Africa Foundation (MIAF) under the auspices of the Music In Africa Live project 2022 (MIALive). The eight female musicians were drawn from the National Female Artists Association (NAFAA). Women's Unite Festival - The Gambia project is being implemented by NAFAA in the Gambia from 11th July 2022 to 18th September 2022.The event which will be held on Saturday, 17th September 2022 at the Kairaba Beach Hotel, Jama Hall will feature Sambou Susso, Cess Ngum, Lena B, Mariama Cham, Awa Gambia, Awa Bling, Sophia Bass, and Miss Jobizz. The recorded performances will be broadcast on the 24th  of September 2022 at 8 pm GMT on the Official NAFAA Facebook page, Gambian Talents TV, and Block Entertainment platforms.The performing artists expressed delight at the opportunity to take part in the project which is being held for the first time in the Gambia. Sambou Susso calls it a fantastic opportunity to unleash their talents and skills musically during these times. She said COVID-19 impacted the music sector and this is a way to get them back on their feet. The Program Director of NAFAA Kalilu Banja said that audiences can expect a highly professional acoustic live performance that will be historic and beneficial to artists and musicians.The Women’s Unite Festival - The Gambia is a program of Music In Africa Live, a project of The Music In Africa Foundation supported by the German Federal Foreign Office, Siemens Stiftung, and Goethe Institute.     

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Police to interdict police officer accused of rape

The Gambia police force says Sergeant Momodou Sarjo who was arrested and charged for rape will be interdicted and taken to court. A press release from the office of the IGP stated that the police officer was arrested on the seafront near the monkey park where he was said to have attacked a group of young people at a party. Officer Sarjo is alleged to have attacked the group and raped a twenty-two-year-old girl he captured while she tried to escape. The officer was arrested by the Police Intervention Unit and detained at the Senegambia police station where he was charged.  

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UAE detains thirty four Gambians at Immigration camp

The Ministry of Foreign affairs and Gambians abroad says it is working with Dubai authorities in securing the release of Gambian detainees there. A statement from the ministry said that thirty four Gambians were being held at an immigration detention camp in the United Arab Emirates.

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TICAD8: President Barrow Calls for the Transformation of Africa’s Challenges to Opportunities

His Excellency President has urged TICAD member states and partners to work together to transform Africa’s challenges into opportunities to drive its development priorities. The President was speaking on 27th August 2022 at the TICAD8 Conference in Tunisia. President Barrow emphasised the urgent need to support Africa’s youthful and diverse population to explore green businesses and other development opportunities. He said Africa is a burgeoning continent, but it must redouble efforts to explore its development objectives.  ‘‘Africa presents unique opportunities for closer cooperation with the world, but we must build enough capacity to finance and drive our development sustainably.” He noted. Speaking on the Japanese Government’s support to the continent amidst the ongoing global economic crisis, President Barrow commended the Japanese Prime Minister, His Excellency Fumio Kishida, and the Government and people of Japan ‘‘for assuming greater prominence in the collective endeavour to build resilient economies, communities, and environmental systems’’. President Barrow further expressed that while the continent needs to manage its biodiversity and ecosystem services effectively, it is equally vital to share best practices with the globe to overcome its development challenges. TICAD is a process involving not only African countries but also international organisations, the private sector, and civil society working for Africa’s development and promoting high-level political dialogue between African leaders and their partners on issues related to economic growth, trade and investment, sustainable development, human security, and governance.

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President Barrow arrives in Tunisia

His Excellency President Adama Barrow and his delegation have arrived in the Tunisian capital, Tunis, for the Eighth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD8). The President was received at the Airport by the Tunisian Prime Minister, Her Excellency Najla Bouden. The conference will bring together African leaders and their partners to discuss development objectives geared toward integrating Africa into the emerging global chain of research, innovation, technology and science.

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Physical Planning demolishes structures in Jabang

The department of physical planning has embarked on a demolition exercise in the Jabang area. The structures being demolished are said to be built on waterways blocking the flowing of water. In a letter dated 20th August 2022, sent to homeowners in Jabang, the department of physical planning and housing stated that the buildings were erected without a development permit and without prior approval of the Banjul planning authority. The letter ordered homeowners to remove or demolish the structures before the 22nd of August 2022. Distressed homeowners expressed anger at the action of the planning authorities, claiming they legally acquired the properties from the Social security and housing finance cooperation. They complained that the demolition notice came under forty-eight hours before the structures went under the hammer.  

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SRPEP Signs 6 Contracts for the Construction of Major Infrastructure of Project Intended Facilities

The Small Ruminant Production Enhancement Project (SRPEP) through the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) recently signed six (6) contracts for the construction of the project’s major infrastructure facilities. The Ministry of agricumture announced on its social media handle that the contracts were awarded to Gambian contractors. The statement indicated that the facilities include community pastures, rehabilitation of DLS LAB Abuko, a veterinary drug outlets, a fattening and breeding schemes, mini dairy, milk collection centres, slaughterhouses, meat stalls, and farmer demonstration in YBK. Mamud Njie, SRPEP project director said the facilities will help the project fulfill its objective of improving the livelihood of livestock farmers and strengthen the production and productivity and resilience of rural communities. He added that it will stimulate business entrepreneurship in the livestock sector.

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UN experts arrive to support emergency response to flood victims

An eleven (11) member team deployed by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has arrived in Banjul. They were received by the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) and the United Nations Country Team (UNCT) in Banjul. A statement from the UN Banjul office says the team was deployed following consultations between The Gambia Government and the UN Resident Coordinator’s office due to the recent flooding, support was requested for UNDAC deployment. The team will support the emergency response to the recent flood that claimed the lives of eleven people, rendered over five thousand others homeless, and severely affected over 40,000 people.  Several communities remain submerged following the 31st July deluge causing a high risk of disease outbreaks due to contaminated waters. The team of experts will support the country in various areas such as:– Disaster and emergency assessment, analysis and coordination processes assessment & analysis, mapping, situational analysis, and coordination. – Strengthening information management systems.– Humanitarian resource mobilization through OCHA funding tools and other options through key humanitarian donors. – Assessment, reporting, and coordinating response to environmental impacts arising from the flood impacts. – Public health assessment and coordination of response to public health impacts arising from the floods. 

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West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) in 2022 Results.

The West African Examinations Council, Banjul office is pleased to announce the release of the results of the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for School Candidates, 2022. A total of 15, 360 candidates from 136 Seniors Secondary Schools registered for the examination. This represents a decrease in the candidature of 5.38% over the previous year's entry figure of 16, 234 candidates.Out of the 15, 360 candidates that registered for the examination this year 6, 319 (41.14%) were male, while 9, 041 (58.86%) were female.In the 2022 WASSCE for school candidates, The Gambian candidates registered in 32 subjects which included English Language, Mathematics, and a host of Science, Arts, Commerce, Technical and Vocational subjects.Six hundred and five (605) candidates (3.94%) obtained credit passes in five subjects and above including English language and Mathematics. On a gender basis, 316 (5.00%) male candidates had five credit passes and above in which English Language and Mathematics are included, while 289 (3.20%) female candidates had five credit passes and above in which English Language and Mathematics are included.A summary of the performance in WASSCE for school candidates, 2022 in terms of the number of credit passes obtained and the percentage of candidates that obtained such (a) number of credit passes is given below. Credit Passes In Numbers of Candidates % of Candidates 9 subjects 201 1.31 8 subjects 336 2.19 7 subjects 426 2.77 6 subjects 547 3.56 5 subjects 679 4.42 4 subjects 932 6.07 3 subjects 1,262 8.22 2 subjects 2,049 13.34 1 subjects 3,667 23.87 On behalf of the Chairman and Registrar to the Council, the Head of National Office wishes to register the Council’s profound appreciation of the immense support rendered by The Gambia Government through the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (MoBSE). In a similar vein, the Council also recognises and appreciates the fruitful efforts of other stakeholders, including its esteemed Examiners, Principals of Senior Secondary Schools as well as the Conference of Principals of Senior Secondary Schools (GAMCOP) who immensely contributed to the successful conduct of the examination.

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Gold again for Gina at the Islamic solidarity games

Gina Bass has successfully defended her title in the women’s 200m race at the Islamic games in Konya, Turkey. Bass finished the dash in 22.63 seconds, an unprecedented feat ever achieved by a Gambian track and field athlete. Gina is now the most decorated Gambian track and field athlete. Wurrie Njadoe, a promising young Gambian athlete finished fourth in the finals.  

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Four security personnel die in a convoy accident

The Office of the President regrets to inform the public that an unfortunate fatal accident involving five State Guard personnel occurred today at Ndemban while escorting reserve vehicles of the convoy to Mankamang Kunda.Four security personnel, Lance Corporal Kebba Sanneh, Corporal Ansumana Danso, Lance Corporal Saikou Touray, and Lance Corporal Ousman Jobe, were pronounced dead at Bwiam General Hospital.First Class Ndedeh Bahoum is currently being managed at Bwiam General Hospital, and his condition is reported Non Critical and Clinically Stable. All clinical assessments and initial investigations are considered normal and will be subsequently referred to Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital- Ndemban Center for further specialist assessment and evaluation. President Barrow profoundly regrets this unfortunate accident and prays Allah Subhana wa ta'allah to grant them the highest of Jannah. The President extends his deepest sorrow to their families and wishes Ndedeh Bahoum a speedy recovery.  

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EFSTH announces outbreak of rare illness in Children

The Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital has announced the emergence of a rare condition currently under observation in the Paediatric Outpatient. A statement from the hospital said the condition is severe and already causing mortality in children. It says samples were collected from affected children and awaiting results from the lab. They present with diarrhea, vomiting, and reduced urination output. Doctors are said to be working hard to establish the cause of the condition. Meanwhile, the public is urged to be vigilant and report to the nearest health facility if their child has the above symptoms mentioned earlier.

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PRESIDENT BARROW INAUGURATES LANDS, LOCAL GOVERNMENT COMMISSIONS TO TACKLE DISPUTES, BOOST DECENTRALISATION

The President, His Excellency Adama Barrow, on Monday presided over the inauguration and swearing-in of members of the newly established Lands Commission and the Local Government Service Commission at a ceremony at State House.  The two Commissions, comprising veteran civil servants,  have the onerous task of strengthening land governance and management in the country as well as resolving disputes related to land. The Lands Commission is headed by Raymond Sock as Chairperson,  Kebba Njie, Babucarr Mbye, Abdoulie Manneh and  Juldeh Ceesay all as members. One after the other, they all took the two oaths of office and secrecy, conducted by the Deputy Secretary to the Cabinet, Momodou Dibba.They later signed the oath registry officially confirming their appointments. Four other officials were also sworn in to the newly established Local Government Service Commission. Former Police chief and Interior Minister Yankuba Sonko heads this Commission which also has Abdoulie Sallah, Saffie Lowe and Bahyda Hydara as members.They also took the prescribed oaths of office and secrecy,  before signing the oath book.Speaking on behalf of the two Commissions,  Raymond Sock expressed gratitude to the President for the trust and confidence reposed in them, and pledged to live up to expectations. The President described these vital institutions as “integral components of the governance process”  that will “reinforce and add value to the nation's land and local government structures.”He disclosed that the commission has a wide mandate which includes “modernising land records, resolving disputes,  promoting equitable access to land and aligning land management practices” with broader national development goals.On the creation of the local government service commission,  President Barrow said this Commission will “strengthen democracy and decentralisation” as it will operate at the level closest to the ordinary people.The President congratulated the Commissioners and thanked them for accepting this responsibility. As veteran civil servants who have served the government at the highest levels, President Barrow said the Commissioners have the “experience,  integrity and professionalism to deliver up to expectations.”He reassured that his government will give them all the support and encouragement to succeed,  and urged all stakeholders to work with the two Commissions to ensure “fair, impartial and equitable management of land.”

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VP JALLOW LAUNCHES FSQA'S STRATEGIC PLAN 2026-2030

His Excellency Mohammed B.S. Jallow, the Vice President, presided over the launch of the Food Safety and Quality Authority's (FSQA) Strategic Plan for 2026-2030 at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre in Bijilo. This strategic plan outlines the Authority's vision, strategic priorities, and key interventions aimed at strengthening food safety and quality systems, enhancing regulatory effectiveness, and safeguarding public health in The Gambia over the medium term.The landmark event gathered key stakeholders from the government, development partners, and the private sector, highlighting the government's commitment to ensuring that citizens have broad access to quality and safe food.Momodou Bah, the Director General of FSQA, explained that this initiative aims to meet the required standards while the FSQA continues to develop national regulations. “We have an Act from 2011, regulations started in 2021, a policy was established in 2024, and now we have developed a strategic plan in 2025. This progression sharpens our focus to ensure we are fulfilling the mandates of the government,” Bah stated.This marks the beginning of a transformative journey, as food safety regulations become increasingly important in ensuring the well-being of every individual.Dr Amadou Sowe, the FSQA Board Chair, emphasised that the successful implementation of the plan will require strong government support. “This ambition will demand sustained investment, strong political will, and unwavering commitment from all stakeholders. Strategic plans don’t implement themselves; they require leadership, discipline, resources, and collective ownership,” Dr Sowe remarked.Immaculada Roca i Cortés, the European Union Ambassador to The Gambia, reiterated the EU's commitment to supporting FSQA. She expressed satisfaction in contributing to a stronger regulatory framework, a more effective inspection and control system, and enhancing technical capabilities.Reports indicate that foodborne illnesses cause an estimated 137,000 deaths annually in Africa, with productivity losses exceeding $20 billion.Public Service Minister Baboucarr Bouy assured FSQA of their support as policymakers while urging all stakeholders to back this initiative. “I urge all stakeholders to rally behind FSQA and support the effective implementation of this Strategic Plan. By doing so, we will not only protect the health of our people but also unlock opportunities for Gambian products to thrive in competitive markets,” Minister Bouy said.In his launch statement, Vice President Mohammed B.S. Jallow described the FSQA Strategic Plan as the result of rigorous analysis, broad consultation, and honest self-reflection. “It is a plan that is both nationally rooted and internationally aligned,” he remarked.Vice President Jallow characterised the moment as one of “genuine national significance,” stating, “The food we eat is not merely a matter of personal choice; it is a matter of public health, economic security, and national dignity.”An estimated GMD 188.1 million is required for the implementation of the strategic plan over the next five years. H.E. Mohammed B.S. Jallow called on the Ministry of Finance, development partners, and the private sector to recognise food safety as “not a cost, but an investment in public health, economic competitiveness, and The Gambia's reputation as a reliable source of safe, high-quality products in regional and international markets.”The new strategic plan commits to strengthening FSQA's institutional and operational systems, prioritising financial sustainability and resource mobilisation, risk assessment, inspection, surveillance, and enforcement.Additionally, it aims to modernise laboratory services and digital infrastructure, while deepening stakeholder engagement and public awareness.Strategic plans are not just documents; they serve as critical guides for institutions. Their clarity and effectiveness dictate how well these institutions strive to fulfil their purpose.Now that the plan has been launched, the focus will shift to its implementation, which is anticipated to enhance The Gambia’s international recognition in global food markets.

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VP JALLOW HOSTS FLURRY OF COURTESY CALLS: UNITY, AUTISM, STUDENT NURSES TOP AGENDA

A flurry of activity took place as several associations paid a courtesy call on His Excellency Mohammed B.S. Jallow, the Vice President of The Republic of The Gambia, to introduce their groups and explore potential areas for cooperation.The first to arrive were members of the 'I Am Gambian Association,' a movement dedicated to fostering unity and national pride in the pursuit of sustainable national development.Famara Manka, the President of the association, explained the focus of their visit after a closed-door discussion with Vice President Jallow. He stated that the association, founded last year, is committed to expanding its reach across the country to achieve its goals. "I Am Gambian Association is dedicated to bringing Gambians together. We aim to overlook our tribal, religious, and cultural differences and embrace the belief of 'I am a Gambian,'" he added.(Members of the 'I Am Gambian Association. PC: OVP)Shortly after noon, the Vice President welcomed members of the Gambia Autism Support and Advocacy Network, who visited to highlight their work and seek stronger collaboration with the government.Following some preliminary formalities, the group engaged in closed-door talks with Vice President Jallow and his top officials. They discussed issues ranging from raising awareness to inclusion and support for individuals with autism and their families.Abdou-Majid Jallow, the National Coordinator of the Gambia Autism Support and Advocacy Network, described the purpose of their visit. "We aim to involve the Vice President in raising awareness and advocating for people living with autism in this country, as there is still a significant amount of stigma and misconception surrounding it," he said.(Members of the Gambia Autism Support and Advocacy Network. PC: OVP)The day's courtesy calls concluded with a meeting of the Gambia Student Nurses Association.After engaging with Vice President Jallow and his senior officials, Maha Sowe, the president of the Gambia Student Nurses Association, outlined their discussions, noting the Vice President's strong support for their cause."The Vice President is considerate and genuinely wants to help Gambian students, especially student nurses. He assured us that his office would see what assistance they could provide."(Members of the Gambia Student Nurses Association. PC: OVP)These organisations are hopeful that they can rely on the Office of the Vice President for stronger government support moving forward.

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PRESIDENT BARROW PRESIDES OVER UTG’S 18TH CONVOCATION AS 1,633 STUDENTS GRADUATE

President H.E. Adama Barrow presided over the 18th convocation ceremony of the University of The Gambia at the Faraba Banta campus. The event celebrated the graduation of 1,633 students, making it the largest graduation in the university's history. The ceremony was attended by special guests, government officials, and students. This year's convocation was historic, featuring high-profile attendees such as Dr Akinwumi Adesina, former President of the African Development Bank, and Prof. Dauda Ngom, Senegal's Minister of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation. The Vice Chancellors of three universities from Senegal, Ghana, and Nigeria were also present at the ceremony.Professor Momodou Mustafa Fanneh, Chairman of the Governing Council of the University, described the convocation as a defining moment in the university's life, emphasising the preparation of these young men and women for a future beyond the classroom. He challenged the graduates to utilise their knowledge and experience to contribute positively to the development of society and the nation.Vice Chancellor Prof. Herbert Robinson stated that this convocation is a testament to the growth and resilience of the University of The Gambia, which now features a modern campus equipped with state-of-the-art facilities conducive to teaching and learning. He attributed the record graduation rate to the expansion of university infrastructure and programs.Prof. Robinson congratulated the graduates for their hard work, resilience, and dedication, assuring them that the university would continue its path of reform, expansion, and innovation to meaningfully contribute to the development of the country.Prof. Dauda Ngom, Senegal's Minister of Higher Education, spoke about the longstanding partnership between their institutions, urging Gambians to take advantage of scholarship opportunities to study in Senegal.Dr Akinwumi Adesina, one of the two special guests, expressed his pleasure in being associated with the university, praising the developments that have transformed the country in recent years. As a lifetime partner of The Gambia, he felt honoured to have a school named after him, the School of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, recognising his contributions to Africa's development.He pledged to establish an initial endowment of $250,000 to support education, scholarships, and faculty and staff, while also promising to make the university a global centre of excellence. His message to the graduates emphasised the importance of being prepared to face the challenges of the future.In his convocation speech, President and Chancellor H.E. Adama Barrow congratulated the graduates, their families, and the university on this milestone. He noted that hosting such an event in Faraba Banta has become a national symbol of aspiration, strategic investment, and educational transformation.The President added that the convocation's theme, "Higher Education as a Strategic Bridge for Policy, Innovation, and Job Creation," aligns with The Gambia's development priorities. He challenged the graduates to use their knowledge to positively impact the country's development, emphasising that the nation looks to them for solutions to its challenges.President Barrow reassured attendees that his government will continue to invest in education, particularly in the higher education sector, to equip young people with the necessary knowledge and skills to realise their potential.At the conclusion of the ceremony, distinguished students were recognised for their performance, with Ebrima Sumareh emerging as the overall best graduating student for the cohort. Sumareh expressed his deep humility and gratitude for the award, urging his peers to serve the nation with purpose and determination.

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PRESIDENT BARROW HOSTS COMMONWEALTH CHIEF, WOMEN’S CHAMBER IN BACK-TO-BACK STATE HOUSE MEETINGS

In a series of meetings at the State House, President H.E. Adama Barrow hosted Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Ayokor Botchwey and members of the Gambia Women's Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday.Secretary-General Botchwey was accompanied by Serign Modou Njie, the Minister of Foreign Affairs. After they met with the President, Botchwey stated that her visit was part of her tour of Commonwealth member states aimed at "strengthening cooperation" in areas of mutual interest.H.E President Adama Barrow with the Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Ayokor Botchwey. [PC: State House]She assured that the Commonwealth will continue to engage with The Gambia to support development, capacity building, and democracy. Additionally, she formally invited the President to the Commonwealth Heads of State and Government summit in Antigua later in November.In a separate meeting, the members of the Gambia Women's Chamber of Commerce updated the President on their activities and the challenges they face. Naffie Barry, the Managing Director of the Gambia Women's Chamber of Commerce, described the meeting as very productive, noting that they received strong reassurances of support from the Gambian leader.Photo session of members of the Gambia Women's Chamber of Commerce with H.E Adama Barrow [PC: State House]She expressed gratitude to the President for the audience and conveyed hope that the meeting would lead to positive outcomes for Gambian women.

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PRESIDENT BARROW BRIEFED ON UTG CONVOCATION AS 1,600 SET TO GRADUATE IN FARABA

Officials from the University of The Gambia paid a courtesy call on the President, His Excellency Adama Barrow, at State House on Tuesday. The delegation was led by the Minister of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology and comprised the Vice Chancellor Professor Herbert Robinson, the Chairman of the Governing Council Prof Momodou Mustapha Fanneh and the Registrar Bobo Baldeh. They were at the State House to update the President,  who is also the Chancellor of the University on the upcoming convocation ceremony at the Faraba Banta campus, where over 1,600 students are expected to graduate after fulfilling all requirements in their different fields of study. Speaking to reporters after they met with President Barrow, Professor Herbert Robinson, the Vice Chancellor, disclosed that discussions were good and productive as they had agreed on all the details of the much-anticipated convocation ceremony later this weekend.Professor Herbert Robinson, the Vice Chancellor of the University of The Gambia  (pic: State House)“Over 1,600 students will graduate this year from the 9 schools of the University,  among them the first Doctoral graduates and graduates from the new school of Dentistry,” Professor Robinson added.The Vice Chancellor further expressed gratitude to the president and the Higher Education Minister for the support to the University, noting that the UTG has “seen massive investment and modernisation in infrastructure over the years” attributing this to President Barrow's “personal commitment” to the higher education sector.

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