The National Accreditation and Quality Assurance Authority (NAQAA) has intensified efforts to strengthen academic standards by convening a high-level stakeholder engagement with representatives from universities across The Gambia.

The meeting forms part of NAQAA’s broader initiative to reinforce accreditation systems and elevate the quality of academic programmes within the country’s higher education sector.

University leaders and academic stakeholders gathered to deliberate on practical strategies aimed at advancing research, fostering innovation and deepening community engagement.

Officials said the engagement also focused on developing a structured framework to monitor and assess research excellence across institutions.

The proposed system is expected to lay the groundwork for a credible mechanism that could eventually inform the ranking of higher education institutions in the country.

In his opening statement, NAQAA Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Momodou Lamin Tarro, highlighted the central role of research in national transformation.

He stressed that research must be institutionalised within universities to drive innovation, strengthen evidence-based policymaking and enhance the country’s global competitiveness.

Dr. Tarro noted that vibrant research systems not only contribute to knowledge production but also play a critical role in addressing national development challenges.

He urged universities to prioritise research culture, collaboration and accountability to ensure meaningful socio-economic impact.

Participants at the session examined ways to build sustainable research ecosystems, improve academic output and align university research priorities with national development goals.

Through the initiative, NAQAA reaffirmed its commitment to promoting academic excellence, accountability and strategic growth in higher education, positioning the sector as a key pillar in the country’s development agenda.

By Adama Makasuba