Gambia’s education progress is commendable - philanthropist

Dr. Ancha Jagne Ceesay, who is based in the United Kingdom, said the progress and development of the education sector in the country is unprecedented as there is now a huge difference between what is attainable educationally now and what used to be. “I never dreamt that The Gambia will have a university at this time. We were compelled to go to UK to continue our education because there was no university in the country at that time.”

Speaking at the handing over ceremony of educational materials to a school named after her, Dr. Ancha Jagne Ceesay Quality Foundation Nursery School of Bundung, Dr. Jagne Ceesay said the donation was just the beginning of a series of donation that would be given to the school. According to her, the school would soon benefit of a cash donation to enable it pay for its rent. She also declared her interest and that of her partner’s, Polly Matchan’s, to embark on sponsoring some pupils of the school, by paying their tuition fees, providing for their school uniforms as well as learning materials. She said that toys would also be donated to the school.

According to her, she would not relent in offering support to the school, promising that she will even increase her support to the school annually. Narrating on what committed her to venture in philanthropy, especially supporting the Gambian needy, she said “I was born and brought in The Gambia. The Gambia is my root and I see nothing greater than trying to help one’s own people. I love supporting people who need support.”

Imam Alh. Cherno Kah, the Imam Ratib of The Gambia who also graced the occasion described the philanthropist as a person committed to empowering humanity, especially the people of The Gambia. According to him, Dr. Jagne Ceesay was inspired to support the people following the example of the Gambian leader, Sheikh Prof. Dr. Alh. Yahya AJJ Jammeh who is said is unparalleled in his commitment to the welfare of The Gambian people.

Lamin Saidykhan, headmaster of the nursery school said Dr. Jagne Ceesay was convinced to assist the school after she first visited the nursery school and spoke with the school authorities. In commending the philanthropist for her generous gesture, Saidykhan called on other able Gambian and non Gambians to emulate Dr. Jagne Ceesay, adding that it is only with total commitment of all and sundry that the country could be developed.

Katim Touray, the councilor of Bundung ward described the nursery school as part of efforts to complement government efforts in the education sector, saluting the president’s zeal in building schools and funding students’ education. He also thanked Dr. Jagne Ceesay for the magnanimous gesture, adding that the donation was timely. He also promised on behalf of the school that the materials will be put into good use.

Pa Modou Faal, chairman of the event also described Dr. Jagne Ceesay to be very committed to assisting people with disabilities in the country and that her philanthropic gesture has now extended to all that are needy.