Students at the University of The Gambia Demand Better Facilities and Transport After Protests

Overview of Student Protests

In October 2026, hundreds of students at the University of The Gambia (UTG) staged a protest at the vice chancellor's office in Faraba Banta. The demonstration highlighted ongoing grievances regarding transportation, inadequate campus facilities, and student welfare. While lectures have since resumed following government intervention, student leaders continue to call for administrative changes.

Transportation and Basic Services

The Students' Union reported that these issues impact more than 12,000 students. Key logistical challenges include:

• Bus Shortages: Securing a seat on university buses remains a daily struggle for commuters traveling long distances, such as the 40-km journey from home to the Faraba Banta campus.
• Water and Food Access: Students have previously complained about limited access to safe drinking water and affordable cafeteria meals.
• Internet Connectivity: Unreliable internet access has hindered students' ability to utilize digital research materials.

Government and University Response

Following the demonstrations, Higher Education Minister Professor Pierre Gomez visited the campus alongside university and government officials. Reported measures and official statements include:

• Transport Deployment: The Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology stated that the Gambia Transport Service Company deployed 20 buses to aid student commutes.
• Utilities: Water dispensers have been installed while long-term filtration solutions are addressed with the National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC).
• Connectivity Updates: The ministry indicated that internet extension work for specific schools was initiated, though independent completion verification was not provided.

Outstanding Demands and Facility Concerns

Despite official responses, the leadership dispute remains unresolved, with the Students' Union demanding the resignation of Vice Chancellor Herbert Robinson and the director of student affairs over alleged failure to perform duties. Additionally, representatives from various departments highlighted infrastructural challenges:

• Medical and Nursing Facilities: The Medical Students Association reported overcrowded classrooms, poor ventilation, and shortages of practical training equipment and simulation laboratories.
• Journalism Programme: Students pointed to a lack of functional radio and television studios necessary for practical training.
• Safety Concerns: Individual student accounts, such as an reported assault incident involving a student walking to a bus stop, have raised broader concerns regarding personal security during early morning commutes.

How to Verify

Interested parties can review official updates through the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology or contact the University of The Gambia Students' Union for ongoing announcements regarding campus administration and facility improvements.