According to andyeducation, the educational system in Gambia is divided into three levels: primary, secondary, and higher education. Primary education in Gambia is compulsory for all children aged 6-14, and is free of charge for children aged 6-11. After completing primary school, students may attend either a junior secondary school (JSS) or senior secondary school (SSS). JSS lasts three years and prepares students for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). Passing this exam grants them access to higher education, which includes universities and specialized schools. Universities in Gambia are divided into public institutions and private institutions. Public universities provide a range of degree programs in fields such as sciences, humanities, arts, business, economics, engineering and law. Private universities offer specialized programs such as medicine or architecture. Additionally, the government has established several professional schools that offer specialized training in fields such as finance or engineering. In order to ensure quality in its educational system, the government of Gambia has implemented several measures to improve access to higher education. These include providing financial support for students from low-income households through scholarships and grants; encouraging collaboration between public institutions and private companies; promoting diversity in higher education by encouraging underrepresented groups such as women or ethnic minorities to pursue higher degrees; improving teacher training programs; modernizing infrastructure; and introducing new technologies into classrooms. The government also offers incentives for students who wish to pursue international studies or internships abroad by providing them with financial aid packages tailored to their needs. See educationvv for Gambia educational systems.
