By: Haddy Touray
The Minister of Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources, Honourable Rohey John Manjang, has called on newly graduated forestry and wildlife officers to serve The Gambia with diligence, loyalty, and honesty in discharging their national duties.
She made the remarks on Friday during the ceremony of 14 forestry guards and park and wildlife graduation ceremony held at the Department of Forestry headquarters in Abuko.
Minister Manjang underscored the importance of education and its practical application, cautioning that education without commitment and discipline serves little purpose.
“Without proper utilization, your education becomes meaningless and could even turn you into a liability. I urge you to nurture a culture of discipline, loyalty, diligence, and honesty in the discharge of your duties,” she advised.
She further emphasized that the government and the Department of Forestry had invested substantial resources in their training, adding that much is expected in return through their dedicated service to the nation.
“Where much is given, much is expected. The Department of Forestry has invested heavily in preparing your future, and now it is your turn to deliver with commitment and integrity,” she stated.
Minister Manjang commended Lt. Colonel Salifu Corr, Director of Forestry, for his visionary leadership and dedication to the development of young forestry professionals. She also thanked parents and families for their continued support of the graduates throughout their academic journey.
Speaking at the event, Mawdo Jallow, Deputy Director of the Department of Parks and Wildlife Management, described the occasion as more than a ceremony of celebration, but a symbol of national progress and environmental stewardship.
However, she said, “This event marks a new chapter in our collective effort to nurture professionals dedicated to safeguarding our forests, wildlife, and environment for future generations.”
He noted that The Gambia’s forests and wildlife face increasing threats from illegal logging, poaching, habitat loss, and climate change, urging graduates to uphold principles of sustainability and environmental stewardship.
“Be innovative in your approaches. Embrace technology to monitor forest cover, wildlife movement, and climate trends. Work closely with communities and become ambassadors of environmental protection wherever you serve,” Jallow advised.
For his part, Momodou Njie, Principal of the National School of Forestry and Wildlife, said the institution continues to be a “beacon of hope, resilience, knowledge, and national pride.”
“For 14 years, we have nurtured minds that now nurture forests and ecosystems across the country. With the continued support of MECCNAR, the Department of Forestry, and the Department of Parks and Wildlife, we must keep investing in education, innovation, and community engagement for a sustainable future,” he concluded.
The ceremony marked the first graduation of its kind to be held at the Department of Forestry headquarters, signifying the ministry’s growing commitment to professional development and capacity building in environmental management.
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By: Haddy Touray The Minister of Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources, Honourable Rohey John Manjang, has called on newly…
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