Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology MoHERST

Overview

The Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (MoHERST) is the principal governmental body responsible for overseeing higher education, scientific research and technological advancement in The Gambia. Established in 2007, MoHERST plays a pivotal role in shaping the nation's educational landscape, ensuring the development and implementation of policies that promote academic excellence, innovation and sustainable development. The ministry's mandate encompasses the regulation, supervision and enhancement of higher education institutions, as well as the advancement of scientific research to contribute to national development.

History and Legal Framework

MoHERST was established in February 2007, following the division of the former Department of State for Education (DOSE) into two separate entities: the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (MoBSE) and MoHERST. This restructuring aimed to provide focused attention to higher education and research, recognizing their critical role in national development. Operating under the legal framework established by the Government of The Gambia, MoHERST collaborates with various national and international partners to fulfill its mandate. Its establishment marked a significant step towards formalizing and structuring higher education and research activities in the country, laying the foundation for future advancements in these sectors.

Mission, Vision and Objectives

The primary mission of MoHERST is to:

• Develop and implement policies that enhance the quality and accessibility of higher education in The Gambia.
• Promote scientific research and innovation to address national challenges and contribute to global knowledge.
• Ensure the accreditation and quality evaluation of higher education institutions and programs.
• Foster international cooperation and partnerships in the fields of education and research.

Through these objectives, MoHERST aims to position The Gambia as a center of academic and scientific excellence in the region. The ministry's vision is to play a central role in the transformation of The Gambia into a skills-based economy and knowledge society, with a fundamental priority of ensuring that its citizens are among the most educated and skilled in the world in relation to university studies, research and knowledge diffusion.

Governance, Structure and Independence

MoHERST operates under the authority of the President of the Republic and is structured to effectively manage the diverse aspects of higher education and research. The ministry is headed by a Minister, who is appointed by the President and is responsible for the overall direction and administration of the ministry's activities. The organizational structure includes various departments and agencies that specialize in specific areas such as university affairs, scientific research and international cooperation. While MoHERST functions within the framework of the Gambian government, it maintains a degree of operational autonomy to implement its policies and programs effectively.

Accreditation and Quality Evaluation in Higher Education

MoHERST plays a crucial role in the accreditation and quality evaluation of higher education institutions in The Gambia. It establishes standards and criteria for academic programs and institutions, ensuring that they meet national and international benchmarks. The ministry conducts regular assessments and evaluations to monitor compliance with these standards, aiming to enhance the quality of education and maintain the credibility of Gambian degrees. Through these efforts, MoHERST seeks to improve the employability of graduates and the overall reputation of Gambian higher education.

International Cooperation and Network Memberships

MoHERST actively engages in international cooperation to promote academic exchange and collaboration. It is a member of various regional and international organizations that facilitate partnerships in education and research. These memberships enable Gambian institutions to participate in joint programs, research initiatives and capacity-building activities. The ministry also works closely with foreign governments and institutions to establish bilateral agreements that support the mobility of students and faculty, as well as the sharing of knowledge and resources.

Current or Future Impact on Higher Education

Looking ahead, MoHERST is focused on several key areas to strengthen higher education in The Gambia:

• Curriculum Reform: Updating academic programs to align with global trends and labor market demands.
• Infrastructure Development: Enhancing physical and technological infrastructure to support modern teaching and research activities.
• Research Promotion: Increasing investment in scientific research to address national development priorities.
• Internationalization: Expanding opportunities for students and faculty to engage in global academic networks.

Through these initiatives, MoHERST aims to foster a dynamic and responsive higher education system that contributes to the socio-economic development of The Gambia.

Summary

The Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology is a cornerstone institution in The Gambia's educational and scientific landscape. Established in 2007, it has been instrumental in shaping the policies and structures that govern higher education and research in the country. With a clear mission to enhance the quality and accessibility of education, promote scientific inquiry and foster international collaboration, MoHERST continues to play a vital role in the development of Gambian society. Its ongoing efforts in accreditation, infrastructure development and curriculum reform are poised to have a lasting impact on the nation's academic and scientific future.

FAQs

• What is the role of MoHERST in The Gambia?
  MoHERST oversees higher education and scientific research in The Gambia, developing policies, ensuring quality standards and promoting international cooperation.
• When was MoHERST established?
  MoHERST was founded in 2007 to formalize and structure higher education and research activities in The Gambia.
• Who leads MoHERST?
  MoHERST is headed by a Minister appointed by the President of the Republic of The Gambia.
• How does MoHERST ensure quality in higher education?
  MoHERST establishes accreditation standards, conducts evaluations and monitors compliance to maintain high educational quality.
• Is MoHERST involved in international partnerships?
  Yes, MoHERST engages in international cooperation through memberships in regional and global organizations, facilitating academic exchange and collaboration.

Organization Name

Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology

Acronym

MoHERST

Year of Establishment

1/01/2007

Control Type

Public

Entity Type

Non-Profit

Geo Focus and Coverage

National

Recognized by

n.a.

Affiliations or Memberships

n.a.

Number of Member Universities or Accredited Institutions

n.a.

Address

Bertil Hardway
Kotu
Gambia

Phone

+220 446 5404

Fax

n.a.

Official Social Media Channels

Facebook

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Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology's X page

LinkedIn

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YouTube

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Instagram

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Wikipedia Article

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