KsTU Delegation Visits the Gambia to Strengthen Collaboration with GPPA and Explore New Opportunities

A two-member delegation from Kumasi Technical University (KsTU) has paid a reciprocal visit to The Gambia to advance the partnership established between KsTU and the Gambian Public Procurement Authority (GPPA). This follows an earlier visit by a four-member delegation from GPPA to KsTU, where both institutions agreed to collaborate on enhancing training and research capabilities.

The KsTU delegation, led by Dr. Kwame Owusu Sarpong, Vice Dean of the Graduate School and Dr. (Mrs.) Gladys Tuo, Head of Department of Procurement and Supply Chain Management, engaged in high-level discussions with senior management of GPPA and the Gambian Public Procurement Institute (GPPI). The meetings were focused on finalising the modalities of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and discussing the implementation of training programmes that will benefit both institutions

During their visit, the KsTU team was informed that the collaboration had been discussed at a Cabinet retreat, where the President of the Gambia expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. The President highlighted the importance of the MoU, which positions KsTU to mentor GPPI, thereby enhancing the capacity and expertise of procurement professionals in Gambia.

The delegation also met with Senior Lecturers of the Institute to discuss the mode of delivery for the training programmes. The meeting provided an opportunity for the exchange of ideas and feedback, which was incorporated at the final discussions.
A key highlight of the visit was the meeting with the Permanent Secretary (Chief Director) of the Ministry of Finance. The Permanent Secretary welcomed the collaboration and emphasized the need for well-trained procurement professionals, essential for the successful execution of government projects. He also urged KsTU to consider expanding the collaboration to include the University of The Gambia, particularly in the areas of research and mentoring.