MoHERST launches Virtual Reality Pilot Project
By Sulayman Waan
The Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (MoHERST) in partnership with the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (MoBSE), ICESCO and Avantis Education-UK last week launched the Virtual Reality (VR) Pilot Project for students and teachers.
The Virtual Reality (VR) Pilot Programme aims to equip students and educators with the skills and tools to thrive in the digital era.
The project is funded by Islamic World Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) and Avantist Education- UK.
The launch was held alongside the opening of a three-day master-class workshop on the use of encouraging educational technology for effective teaching and quality education.
In his launching statement held at the University of Education of The Gambia (UEG), Pierre Gomez, Minister of MoHERST said the initiative marks a pivotal moment in the country’s journey towards a modern, technology-driven education system, ensuring that students and educators are equipped with the tools and skills necessary to thrive in the digital era.
“Education is the foundation of national development, and in today’s fast-evolving world, the integration of innovative digital solutions is no longer an option – it is an imperative,” Prof. Gomez said.
He said the VR Pilot Project, implemented in collaboration with Avantis Education UK, represents a major step in revolutionizing the country’s learning experiences, offering students the opportunity to immerse themselves in interactive, real-world simulations that enhance comprehension and critical thinking.
Gomez commended Avantis Education UK for bringing their expertise and cutting-edge VR solutions to the project, ensuring the educators and students have access to world-class technology.
He thanked MoBSE for its collaborative efforts in shaping policies that foster digital learning and teacher training, while thanking UEG for hosting the workshop.
He reaffirmed government’s commitment to ensuring that technology is not just an accessory but an integral part of the country’s education system.
He urged participants to fully engage, explore and embrace these new technologies, as they will play a critical role in shaping the next generation of Gambian leaders, innovators and problem-solvers.
Haddy Jatou Sey, former Minister of MoBSE, now education director for ICESCO said the organization aims to transform education systems of all member states.
She disclosed that the pilot project is currently ongoing in The Gambia, Pakistan, Oman and the Kingdom of Morocco.
“This particular project in The Gambia is meant to support the two ministries (MoHERST and MoBSE) through Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Technology to enhance digitalization in the education system,” she said.
Waqas Afridi, education expert for ICESCO said the project is currently on pilot, adding that when succeeded the organizations will continue the project and expand it for more countries to benefit from it.
David Mann, senior vice president for Avantis Education -UK expressed delight with working with The Gambia on the pilot project.
“We are to work with you to see how best we can contribute in transforming technology in the country,” he said.
SW/COB/15/03/25
