By Alieu Jallow
Girls have outperformed boys in this year’s Gambia Basic Education Certificate Examination (GABECE), with 42 of the 60 students who achieved the top aggregate score of 6 being female, according to the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (MoBSE). Among them is Hasana Ryan of Mansa Colley Bojang Upper Basic School, whose personal story of determination and gratitude has captured national attention.
Mansa Colley Bojang Upper Basic emerged as the leading school, producing 13 top scorers, nine girls and four boys. It was followed by Gambia Methodist Academy with six, St. Peter’s Upper Basic with five, and Anna Marie Rivier and Anna Marie Javouhey Schools with four each. The strong showing from Mansa Colley has reinforced its reputation as one of the country’s leading academic institutions.
Reflecting on her success, Hasana described the overwhelming emotions she felt when she saw her results. “When I found out I had scored the highest grade, I was overwhelmed with happiness. I cried, hugged my best friends who also achieved aggregate 6, and thought only of how proud my family would be and how grateful I was to Allah for making it possible.”
She expressed deep gratitude to her teachers, administrators, and mentor Uncle Mucki for their support, and reserved a special tribute for her mother, Yama Gibba. “Even on the nights I stayed up late studying, she would tell me, ‘You know you always complain of headaches, sleep.’ But I refused, because I wanted to make her proud. Her love, patience, and encouragement are part of the reason I stand here today.”
Hasana also offered words of advice to younger students, encouraging them to focus on their education and not be distracted. “Never give up on your dreams, no matter how difficult the journey may seem. Stay focused, don’t get distracted by social media, use the internet wisely for your education, listen to your teachers, and always treat others with patience and respect.”
Her achievement, alongside the strong performance of girls nationwide, has been hailed as a reflection of both personal dedication and the quality of mentorship offered by Gambian schools. For many, Hasana’s story is an inspiration that with hard work, guidance, and perseverance, academic excellence is within reach.
