15th October 2004:

President Jammeh has said he was 'deeply touched' by the sentiments expressed by student leaders during their meeting at State House in Banjul. He spoke of a sense of relief for him and Government.

The President on Friday granted audience to representatives of student unions from the University of The Gambia and School of Medicine, GTTI, Gambia College and GAMSU at State House.

The students came to thank President Jammeh for his continuing assistance toward development of the education sector in the country, and took the opportunity to highlight some of their problems.

Speaking in response to their statements, the President reminded them that whatever he does as a president for national socio-economic development, "is not for my benefit, but for the benefit of you the young people that would succeed us as leaders of this country"

He also pointed out that whatever he does is in fulfillment of his duty and obligation to the people of this country.

He advised the students to avoid politics, and to concentrate on their books and studies. "Your political party should be your school, nothing else".

He also said what he does for the students is not out of self-interest, since "I am not playing politics." He reminded them that to allow themselves to be used against the government of the day, "is like you shooting the hand that feeds you".

"I'm not the type of person that would harbour grudge against young people; after all whatever we do in this country we are doing it for you. We cannot be your enemy. Because anybody who loves the country, would want this country to move forward and become a beacon of hope for humanity. Its not us, but you that are going to enjoy and your children. So whatever we do in this country on the infrastructural development is to make life much easier for the young people - the future of this country".

To those who criticise him for giving money to students, President Jammeh said "I don't give money to the students to spend, but to go and solve their problems".

Earlier, the president of the university students body, Samba Jallow, GTTI students union president Zaccheus Ndure, the president of Gambia College students union Mohamed Jamal Ceesay, Ousman Sanyang president of students association at the School of Medicine, and the president of GAMSU Alhagie Nyabally all delivered statements thanking the head of state for his support, and pledged to cooperate with the authorities at all times.

The president of GAMSU, the umbrella body of students in tertiary institutions, described the meeting as the beginning of a new partnership between the government and Gambian students. Nyabally promised President Jammeh that henceforth they will be partners in development.

At the end of the meeting, the President gave a 25-seater mini bus and 1000 bags of rice to Gambia College, and a similar mini bus to the university students.

The students in turn handed over to President Jammeh a document containing their resolutions.

Among the government officials witnessing the meeting was the new Secretary of State for Education, Fatou Faye, who said she was deeply touched by the sentiments expressed by the students' representatives. She assured the student leaders that her doors are always open to discuss matters of concern to them.