New Era for Higher Education Financing Begins, Says SRLS Board Chair By Aisha Jawara
Board Chair of the Students Revolving Loan Scheme (SRLS), Mr. Ernest Aubee, has reaffirmed his commitment to expanding access to higher education in The Gambia, calling on all stakeholders to support the validation of the Scheme’s Loan Policy and Strategic Plan (2026–2030), which he described as a defining milestone in strengthening the country’s higher education financing system.
Speaking at the validation workshop organised by the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (MoHERST), Mr. Aubee said the exercise marks more than the adoption of policy documents; it lays the foundation for a transparent, accountable and sustainable student loan programme that will benefit generations of Gambian students.
He noted that since the appointment of the Executive Director and the Board in 2025, significant progress has been made in establishing the institution. According to him, the Scheme has recruited its core staff, developed key operational policies and established robust governance systems to ensure effective implementation.
“The Strategic Plan clearly outlines our vision, strategic priorities and accountability framework, while the Loan Policy provides comprehensive guidance on eligibility, loan disbursement, repayment and recovery mechanisms,” Mr. Aubee said.
He urged students, higher education institutions, financial institutions, employers and development partners to work collaboratively to ensure the long-term success and sustainability of the initiative.
Mr. Aubee explained that the SRLS is a uniquely Gambian institution designed to reflect the realities of the country’s developing economy. He said the Scheme’s mandate is to expand access to higher education while safeguarding public resources, noting that achieving this delicate balance requires the active participation of all stakeholders in shaping and implementing the policies and operational guidelines.
Highlighting Mr. Aubee’s credentials, the Board Chair was praised for his longstanding contribution to higher education development in The Gambia. During his career at the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, he played a pivotal role in advancing institutional development and education reforms. He also served as a volunteer lecturer at the University of The Gambia, where he mentored students and promoted academic excellence.
His appointment as Board Chair has further strengthened the governance and strategic direction of the Students Revolving Loan Scheme, providing the leadership needed to transform the initiative from policy into a fully operational national institution.
Executive Director Mr. Samba Bah said that within just 180 days, the Scheme had established a fully operational secretariat, recruited key personnel, developed comprehensive governance and procurement systems, and conducted nationwide stakeholder consultations that informed both the Strategic Plan and the Loan Policy.
Mr. Bah also disclosed that the Scheme has secured an approved 2026 budget of D56.5 million, including a government commitment of D40 million, while management continues to mobilise additional resources to bridge the remaining funding gap ahead of the programme’s full rollout.
Minister of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, Prof. Pierre Gomez, reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that no Gambian student is denied access to higher or tertiary education because of financial hardship.
He described the Students Revolving Loan Scheme as one of the most significant education reforms introduced under the administration of President Adama Barrow, aimed at promoting equitable access to higher education across the country.
The Minister commended Mr. Aubee, the Board, management and staff for successfully developing the Scheme’s foundational policy documents despite the absence of an existing national model. He described the achievement as a remarkable demonstration of innovation, dedication and commitment to building a sustainable higher education financing system for The Gambia.
