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The Gambia Student Union at the Islamic University of Medina, alongside executive members of its football team, on Monday paid a courtesy call on the Honourable Minister of Youth & Sports , Hon. Bakary Y. Badjie , following their remarkable victory at the Expatriate World Cup—an annual football tournament hosted by the university. The Gambian team, made up of students studying in Saudi Arabia, proudly clinched the championship for the second year running, defeating other international student teams to secure the coveted title once again. Their back-to-back victory has not only raised the Gambian flag high but also etched their names in the tournament’s history books. The meeting, held at the Ministry’s conference hall and chaired by the Deputy Permanent Secretary (Technical), Mr. Musa Mbye, provided a platform for the students to share the story behind their triumph and the challenges they encountered. Coach Muhammed Lamin Njie reflected on the team’s journey to the finals, highlighting their discipline, determination, and talent as key contributors to their success. However, he was quick to express concern over the lack of sporting materials such as jerseys and training kits—an area he believes, if addressed, could further enhance the team’s performance. Ebrima Mareneh, Vice President of the Student Union, gave a brief overview of the Union’s activities, emphasizing their role in promoting academic excellence and sportsmanship among Gambian students in Medina. Mustapha Camara, the Union’s Head of Media and Publicity, also shed light on some of the logistical challenges faced by the team, especially during international tournaments. In response, Hon. Bakary Y. Badjie lauded the students for their outstanding achievement and described sports as a powerful unifier that transcends borders and brings people together through shared passion and national pride. He noted that The Gambia being recognized on international sporting platforms is a clear reflection of the talent and potential within the country’s youth. “Sports has the power to bring people together, uplift nations, and inspire hope. What you have achieved in Medina is not just a victory for yourselves, but a proud moment for the entire Gambia,” Hon. Badjie said. He assured the delegation that the Ministry remains committed to supporting youth and sports development, both locally and in the diaspora. Hon. Badjie also pledged to support the team through his office, assuring them that they would be provided with sporting materials, including Gambian jerseys, and a token of appreciation in recognition of their performance during the tournament. The delegation expressed their gratitude for the warm reception and used the opportunity to formally request support from the Ministry, particularly in the areas of sports gear, training equipment, and other logistical needs to strengthen their preparation for future tournaments. The meeting ended on a high note with mutual pledges of continued collaboration and support, aimed at further uplifting Gambian youth making waves both at home and abroad.

The Government of The Gambia, through the Ministry of Youth & Sports, has approved D7 million to support the Gambia’s participation in the first-ever African School Games in Algeria. The Gambian delegation, made up of 26 student-athletes and officials, will compete in six sporting disciplines, including athletic, basketball, volleyball, wrestling etc, will arrive in Algeria tomorrow to represent The Smiling Coast at the continental stage. This bold move is backed by a strong partnership between the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Gambia National Olympic Committee (GNOC)—a team effort to give our young athletes the chance to shine internationally. Wishing our young champions the best of luck in Algeria!

The Hon. Minister of Youth and Sports, Bakary Y. Badjie, has confirmed that President Adama Barrow has instructed the immediate deployment of a private jet to evacuate The Gambia’s U16 basketball team, following their involvement in a road accident in Guinea. Speaking from the airport, where he is overseeing preparations alongside his ministry officials and other stakeholders, Minister Badjie stated that the private jet has already departed and will make two inbound trips to ensure the safe return of both players and officials. A medical team from the Ministry of Health and the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital (EFSTH) is currently on standby at the airport to conduct medical assessments upon the team’s arrival. Those who require further treatment will be taken for specialized care, while others will be received by officials of the Gambia Basketball Association and escorted home. The Ministry assures the public that all necessary steps are being taken to provide care and support for the team. Further updates will follow as the evacuation unfolds.

The Honourable Minister of Youth and Sports, Bakary Y. Badjie, engaged with corps members of the National Youth Service Scheme (NYSS) ahead of their swearing-in ceremony in a motivational session aimed at inspiring them to maximize the opportunities available within the ministry and beyond. Drawing from his personal journey, the Minister shared his early life challenges, including the sacrifices he made and his involvement in volunteer work and crafts to support his education. “My hands were once dry from doing crafts to sell just to stay in school,” he told the corps members, adding that success requires the mindset to succeed and the determination to start small and grow steadily. “No one who succeeded did so by chance. Everyone who made it was prepared to be successful,” the Minister said, emphasizing the importance of focus, patience, and hard work. He urged the corps members to resist shortcuts and understand that while the government cannot provide everything, it is committed to creating friendly policies that support youth development. Highlighting the ministry’s programs, Hon. Badjie referenced institutions such as the GSI Centre, NEDI etc where young people undergo a year-long practical training in agriculture. Videos of past beneficiaries who are now thriving in their fields were shared, serving as a testament to what is possible through dedication and government support. “You are not here by accident. The values and skills you gain through NYSS are meant to mold you into responsible, productive citizens. Live by them,” he advised. Speaking at the session, Mr. Abas Bah, Executive Director of NYSS, reaffirmed the Scheme’s commitment to following up on its graduates. He announced that UNDP is ready to support dedicated individuals who complete their training successfully, encouraging the corps members to take their training seriously and remain focused. “Don’t let anyone fool you or derail you from your path. The difference starts with you,” he stressed, adding that NYSS will continue to monitor their progress and support their development. The session concluded with a viewing of the film “Home Again,” which tells the emotional story of a young man who attempted the “back way” migration route seven times unsuccessfully a powerful reminder of the dangers of irregular migration and the importance of building a future at home.