A British philanthropist, Vincent Benedit, has criticised Gambia College, accusing the institution of withholding a student’s certificate for two years, preventing her from securing employment in the hospitality sector.

The student, who completed her catering course in 2022, has yet to receive her certificate despite repeated attempts to obtain it.

In a letter sent to Gambiana, the philanthropist expressed frustration over the delay.

“This unacceptable delay has prevented her from taking up employment, as she is unable to prove that she passed the course. She has now missed two tourist seasons, causing considerable financial hardship for her and her family,” the letter read.

According to the philanthropist, the student has visited the college numerous times, but officials have continued to provide excuses, the latest being that the certificate printer is not working.

The philanthropist claimed that several other students from the same class are facing similar delays, adding that the student in question has been left in tears of frustration.

“As this problem has persisted for two years, I contacted the college principal, Mr Aboubacar Jallow, for an explanation. I did not mention the student’s name, as she feared repercussions. However, Mr Jallow offered no help and referred me to the registrar. When I informed him that I would take the matter to the media, he responded, ‘I have no fear of blackmail.’”

The philanthropist said that upon contacting the registrar, Mr Demba SM Yabou, he was told that “those familiar with certificate processing know that printing and signing takes time.”

When he questioned why it had taken two years, the philanthropist claimed that Mr Yabou dismissed him as “a lunatic.”

The philanthropist warned that the issue could impact future funding for students.

“I have a history of assisting students financially, but I am reluctant to continue if Gambia College keeps blocking students from pursuing their careers. The education system should help students, not create obstacles.”

When contacted by Gambiana regarding the issue, the Principal of Gambia College, Aboubacar Jallow, neither confirmed nor denied the allegation.

“I wouldn’t know without the student’s name,” he said. “But there was a pending certificates for a batch of students who did not complete their attachment.”

Mr. Jallow directed Gambiana to the college’s catering department, stating that they would be in a better position to provide further details.

By Adama Makasuba