There are only few government kindergartens in The Gambia. Usually children’s parents must pay fees so that their children can attend it. The foundation is very important in the early age of kids. Children that are staying at home because their parents can’t afford to pay school fees are having a lot of troubles when entering primary school. Most of them can’t read, write or understand English which is an official language.
There are many government primary schools though but the fact that there is no school fees makes it difficult for both, teachers and children. The classrooms are full (up to 130 children), schools lack of space and as well the teachers. The level of education is low. In addition many parents can’t afford expenses that are connected to the schooling. School uniforms, books, daily meal and transportation, different excursions and school events are mandatory but many parents hardly manage it.
Private schools have in addition to the regular schooling expenses also school fees to be paid. The costs of kindergarten or primary school vary depending on the school and town or village. Many parents wish their kids to attend the private school but unfortunately, many children quit school before the end of the school year because their parents are not able to pay for everything. Some are paying school fees in amount of 50€ in several installments, because some earn less than 30€ per month.
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SCHOOL SYSTEM IN THE GAMBIA
Nursery School
Children start attending nursery school when they are three or four years old. They stay in nursery school for three years. It is of utmost importance because the majority of underprivileged parents are illiterate and nursery school teaches children basics, first through play and later on through learning. Children start learning English, which is of key importance if they wish to have a bright future.
Lower Basic School
Children attend the lower basic school for six years. Classrooms are poorly equipped. Public schools offer elementary education. Private schools are much more expensive, but of higher quality. Children from underprivileged backgrounds attend public schools. They have 5 to 6 hours of lessons daily.
Upper Basic School
This is a three-year school and provides children with basic education. After they have finished upper basic school children can choose to pursue an occupation by enrolling to a senior secondary school. Children have from 5 to 7 hours of lessons daily.
Senior Secondary School
A three-year program. It is adjusted to individual occupations. This school offers general classes together with specialized classes to prepare children for studying at colleges.
College
The length of the study varies among universities, and so do the costs, which strongly affect education of the underprivileged.
There are many specialised courses that offer the acquisition of additional skills in the areas of individual occupations. These enable people to find a job more easily.