The National Youth Parliament (NYP) recently concluded a week-long leadership training course for young people at Essau Lower Basic School in the North Bank Region.

The forum brought together 50 young people from across the country.

According to Lamin Conteh of NYP, the forum provided an opportunity for young people to learn, interact, socialise and share experiences.

Among the topics discussed were leadership, public speaking, report writing, intergenerational dialogue, and popularising of the African Youth Charter and the Youth Act.

Other activities of the forum were cultural activities and site visits.

Barely a month after the inauguration of its new Kanilai Branch, the First International Bank (FIB) Limited on Friday 29th August concluded a five day-training workshop on Entrepreneurial Skills and Development for some 33 residents of Kanilai. The workshop, which attracted 29 women and four men from various groups within Kanilai, was aimed at empowering mainly women by enhancing the capacity in various disciplines such as business identification, basic business management, entity concepts, marketing, public relations, record keeping, financial management and banking.

According to Mr. Baboucarr Sawaneh, marketing manager of FIB, the workshop was very timely.
“Since we are moving towards the trade season there is a need to develop the skills of people to better manage their merger resources,” he said.“ Giving the participants the factual areas of business management is a prerequisite to enable them as emerging entrepreneurs to develop and maintain their own operations,” he added.  Mr. Sawaneh said that entrepreneurs are a scarce and valuable asset in providing a vital link in the evolution and revolution of business forms and ideas in societies. Therefore, the need to show the participants who are potential entrepreneurs how to use current ideas and practices in the management of their activities has become eminent. “The workshop is therefore aimed at developing the analytical skills of the participants while preserving their entrepreneurial skills,” he stated.

Mr. Sawaneh further stressed that the workshop, organised by the first bank in the Fonis –FIB, emphasises the bank’s commitment to working with rural Gambians and promoting national development evenly.

Ms Naba Gassama, program co-ordinator from Micro Enterprise Development Initiative, Gambian Business Development Network and Junior Achievements was the Trainer/Consultant.

The closing ceremony was chaired by the Alkalo of Kanilai, Alh. Ebou Jammeh, and certificates were awarded to participants by Mr.Cyril Ijoma (IT Manager) who deputised the FIB Ag MD/CEO Mr. Daouda Sow.

The  Equigambia Association is  an organisation that was set-up to improve the skills of young tailors and dyers (batik, tie and dye) and help  women to create their own independent businesses and find markets for their products, within and outside The Gambia.

This week, Observer Women’s Weekly  deems it necessary to introduce these dynamic young women who are contributing immensely to the socio-economic development of the country.

In an interview with Women’s Weekly at their showroom in Kololi, Mrs Amie Puye Ceesay, the sales assistant of Equigambia, said she is a young Gambian woman of 28 years old, born and brought up in Kololi. She attended Bakoteh Primary School, Kotu Junior and  Senior Secondary School, from where she proceeded to Kololi Women Skills Centre.

She added that she  joined Equigambia in order to improve her skills.  “As you can see, all these people are young women who come together to work in order to help themselves, their families and also to contribute to the socio-economic development of the country,” she said.

Mrs Ceesay disclosed that the project is based on the internationally recognised principles of fair trade and the main product, the Equigambia collection, is a range of beautiful and relatively inexpensive garments and accessories for women, men and children.

To achieve their purpose, she explained, the Equigambia project is divided into three separate sections and these are: A training centre to improve skills in the sewing, tie and dye and batik arts; productive activities whereby the dyers and tailors produce designs from the Equigambia collection for the association and a commercial section to sell the items.

The association is managed like a co-operative and selling is done mainly at trade fairs, to tourists, expatriates and Gambians, fashion shows in hotels and various other events.

She further stated that, at Equigambia all the accounts are transparent and the whole enterprise is audited by an approved accountant, to ensure that everything conforms to the principles of fair trade.

She added that, the association also trains young girls, who are school drop-outs or from others skill centres.
She disclosed that most of their customers are tourists and they make bigger sales during the tourist season.

“I, therefore, on behalf of all our members called on the government of The Gambia to come to our aid and Gambians to patronise us as we are young Gambian women working together to develop our country,” she appealed.

Mrs Amie Puye Ceesay called on young girls to venture into business.
Most of the products at the Equigambia showroom have local names like Jainaba (long dress, large size), Banjul (sun dress, one size), wengaloo (bias cut dress, two colors without zip), Farafenni (beach bag), capanita (Sambakuko hat with velcro).
In conclusion, she thanked the Association of Small Scale Enterprises in Tourism (ASSET), for their support.

This piece is a toast to the success of all students writing African Poetry in the WASSCE 2009. Africa needs your diligence and skills. Begin now to prepare yourselves for grade A. The following authors / poems are slated to be examined:

Gabriel Okara (New Year’s Eve Midnight);
David Diop (Your Presence);
Kwesi Brew (A Plea for Mercy);
Kofi Awoonor (Rediscovery); and
Ladé Worsonu (The Master Brewer).
Let’s begin with some selected hints for studying poetry:
1. Read each poem quietly, at first. Then, hear the sounds by reading it aloud often - to yourself, a friend, or the family.

2.Be active, and “hands-on” about it. Start by writing “My Impressions”: What you think, feel, or find attractive, refreshing and insightful. Relate poem to any aspect of your life or experiences, or someone else’s.

That is the prime requisite. You may choose to discuss your impressions with other people. You may ask what they think too.

3. Engage with each poem in your own way first, before you consider the “study notes”. In an exam situation, you are more likely to remember your own thoughts faster.

Cambridge examiners, in particular, caution against that “certain sameness to the answers [and] interpretations” where students merely “parrot” study notes and pre-packaged answers. Never put yourself in a position where another person’s ideas pre-empt yours. You could be the genius.

4. In poetry, unlike mathematics, there are no right or wrong answers per se. Poetry allows you the freedom to express yourself; so, state your views and impressions boldly; but most important, be prepared to defend them with clarity, conviction, and sound logic. That is the gateway to the assertive “personal responses” that entice examiners.

5. Poetry is synonymous with parenting. Like they say, almost anyone can have a child; but to be a parent, you must love, support and take responsibility for the child. Poetry is similar. Bear beliefs, views, opinions or even suspicions. But the key is the ability to support those thoughts.

6. In your responses, select and use key words, phrases, or very brief quotes from the poem to show knowledge of the text. Shorter is better because they are easier to remember.

7. Unlike some forbidden fruits, poetry is not for adults only. It is for anyone sensitive to his or her own feelings (and the outlook of others) – the visions, aspirations, moods, fears, etc. Remember what the ancients said of self-knowledge: “Know thyself!” Empathy can be therapeutic, especially where we develop healthy sensitivities and relate them to others. When we feel and share other people’s pains or successes we ourselves become buoyant.

8. By all means, experiment with words, phrases, new meanings, etc. That helps us to develop and discover “verbal magic”. The literary devices (symbolisms, metaphors, imagery, irony, alliterations, assonance, etc) are keys to the creative appreciation of poetry, prose, and drama. First, the devices help to identify and appreciate what is there; Second, they help us to discern our own creative sparks.

9. Even where a particular poem may seem difficult at first, do not be shaken unduly. Begin to think, state, and share reasons why it is unclear. And then be assertive and creative: Suggest ways in which that piece could be amended, adapted, or made more accessible.

Literary reviewers are great at a genre of literature called “Literary Criticism”. You cannot be passive in these “high profile”, “critical thinking” aspects. They call for creative engagement with various styles and types of readings and texts, with you in the driver’s seat.

10. Bottom line: As you develop the mindset to meet any passage undaunted, you can’t possibly lose. For example: where you don’t see exactly what is there, ask yourself: What can this particular word, phrase or line possibly mean in the context? Experiment, explore, make mistakes; but never be passive in the pursuit.

Even at worst, you still learn and benefit where you say: When I read this poem, so and so mean such and such to me, and that is why I suggest these views or draw my conclusions.

11. With poetry, we learn to think, be ourselves, and be reflective. As Albert Camus, the Nobel laureate, put it, we are “obliged to understand rather than to judge”. That is the key to lifelong learning and satisfaction.

12. The greatest thoughts are cast in few words. Welcome to the club as you glean these charms: “A rose by any other name”; “A friend in need”; “Love thy neighbour”; “Bread upon the waters”; “Vengeance is mine, said the Lord”; “To thine own self be true”; “The way of all flesh”; “Puzzles wrapped in mysteries”. It is impossible to recast these gems any “tighter”. It’s all about the poetry!

Now, let’s explore the meaning of the title of Gabriel Okara’s poem, ‘New Year’s Eve Midnight”. Let’s start from scratch, and even assume you have never seen the poem itself. An examiner may pose the question: “What does the title of the poem mean to you?” Or “Explore the possible meanings of the title.”

First of all, “New Year’s Eve Midnight” can mean a multitude of things. For one, the title indicates a “transition”: the process of changing from one state to the other: from a teenager to an adult; from a woman to a mother; from a man to a father; from a colonized country to an independent nation, etc. You may also single out personalities on the verge of history, and who made a great transition.

For example: What was Kwame Nkrumah thinking when he stood on the polo grounds in Accra proclaiming, “Ghana, your beloved country is free for ever?” Consider how he managed to found a new nation, when others denounced him and demanded that he should wait. Was he right in ignoring them? What would you have done?

We know, by now, what Nkrumah’s vision and aspirations for Ghana, and Africa are: continental government and economics, a united voice in international affairs, a personality of selflessness, mass education, etc. Though the founder dreamt big dreams with great conviction, he was only human. So consider “the conspicuous absences”:

What could have been Nkrumah’s fears, or apprehensions? To do justice to such analyses, it is essential that you walk, subtly, in the founder’s moccasins, and unravel the mysteries there. That is the rub!

A second lead: The title also suggests the crossroads: You are in the process of leaving the past to enter the future. One cannot afford to stagger at such opportune times. From earlier anxieties, how does one resolve to be steadfast? Consider also any “wake up calls” that the title may suggest.

A third: At critical times one has to state a position, and abide by it. If you sit on the fence, you could be idling. You may then resemble a passive onlooker. As they say, “There are people who make things happen; those who watch things happen; and those who ask, What happened?” Where do you stand?

A fourth: Relate to Shakespeare, if you are familiar with Hamlet’s classic soliloquy: To be or not to be. Reflect on life’s uncertainties. Consider also the typical “Catch 22” situations: Damned if you do; and damned if you don’t.

A Fifth: New Year resolutions: Are they necessary? Why do people make them? Do they follow them? Do they work? Did you make one last year?

A Sixth: Take care of the present and the future will take care of itself; like preparing for the 2009 examinations today without waiting for a teacher or parent to ask you to. The saga of the “missed present” breaks fortunes. Okara’s title suggested that we prepare for the future beginning now.

The glitzy French may allude to Okara’s title ”New Year’s Eve Midnight” as a “vignette”, a decoration designed to introduce a classy poem. The Internet (Wikipedia) may call the title “a stub”, and ask that you explore the possibilities of clothing a naked thought. Poetry disdains aloofness like nature abhors a vacuum. Be alive! Once you stir the imagination, there’s no telling where you’d fly.

Having discerned that many possibilities from Okara’s title alone, imagine the potential of the whole poem! Well, get started. Okara, Diop, Brew, Awoonor, and Worsonu are some of Africa’s brightest. We are honoured by their lives. Stimulate your mind as you explore theirs. Good luck. Get an ‘A’ on the WASSCE.

[The writer is a Ghanean and founder of GATE Institute (Gifted And Talented Education) for Teacher Education & Methodologies. He specializes in English Language Skills at Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary levels

Danieh Osagie,  proprietor of Lamin Institute for Professional Studies (LIPS) said LIPs is in high spirit  to improve the welfare of young and needy Gambians through scholarship packages and job creation, with a sound enterpreneurial skills.

He made this remark during an exclusive interview with the press at his office in Lamin  which is in relation to the institute’s forthcoming anniversary, the fifth of its kind,  scheduled to take place soon.

According to Mr Osagie LPS is not only interested in financial gains, but also to contribute to the welfare of the nation. ‘‘Since its inception in 1993, LIPS has provided over 500 (five hundred) scholarship packages to the physically disabled persons and the most needy students  facing financial constraints, with the aim of empowering the youths.
 
He went further to say that LPS  always  ensure that their students perform successfully, noting that 80% of their graduants have been able to secure  jobs and others are self employed. 

 He added  that, LIPs doesn’t compromise standard and quality.  “We will continue to serve the Gambian youths, so as to enable them  build a better future for themselves,” he assured.

He finally expressed satisfaction about the way  Gambians have taken ownership of the institution.He also used the opportunity to thank  parents and guardians for the confidence and trust they have in the institution.  On his final statement he disclosed to the members of the media that he is now appointing Joseph Osagie as the new  country director.

Concern Universal,  an NGO based in The Gambia, recently organized a three-day training for its counterparts at Njawara Agricultural Training Center in the North Bank Region.

The training, which focuses on business plan formats, business concepts and types, entrepreneurship and its common characteristics amongst others, was geared towards equipping the participants with the skills to facilitate the smooth implementation of the Small Holder Irrigation For Livelihood Enhancement-Business Project called (SMILE-B Project).

In her welcoming remarks, the Alkalo of Njawara, Aja Haddy Panneh, expressed delight at the training and commended Concern Universal and its partners for their efforts in the developlment of the country.

For his part, Paul Johnson, co-ordinator of the SMILE-B Project, urged participants to take ownership of the project.

Lamin Sawo, business training specialist at Concern Universal, described the training as a step in the right direction. He urged   participants to use the knowledge and skills gained from the training.

At least 30 journalists from across the country last Thursday concluded a four-day journalism skills improvement-training workshop at the Tango Office’s in Fajara M. Section.

The training participants were drawn from both print and electronic media across the country. The Gambia Press Union (GPU) organised the training with funding from the Capacity Building Project of West African Journalists Association (CBP-WAJA) and the African Capacity Building Foundation.

The objectives of the course were, among others, to improve the understanding of participants, on the ethics of journalism, the media and the law, to improve their perspectives, techniques and skills on news collection and news writing.

Addressing the participants at the closing ceremony, Mr. Madi Ceesay, Director of Media Agenda, congratulated the participants on their achievements. He encouraged them to put into practice the skills and knowledge acquired on the course. He implored them to keep reading so as to develop themselves.

Mr. Alpha Sall WAJA Capacity Building Project Co-ordinator said that among WAJA’s aims is to promote unity among journalists in the region. He acknowledged the role The Gambia is playing at WAJA level.

Mrs. Sarata Jabby-Dibba first vice president GPU cum participant thanked the organisers and sponsors for empowering them.

Participants were awarded certificates at the end of the programme.

The program, chaired by Pa Modou Faal Auditor of the GPU, was graced by Mr. Alieu Sagnia Director of Information Services.

A five-day journalism skills improvement-training workshop for journalist opened on Monday at the Tango Office’s, Fajara M. Section.

The training, which is been attended by 30 journalists from both print and electronic media across the country, is organised by the Gambia Press Union (GPU). The training is supported by the Capacity Building Project of West African Journalists Association (CBP-WAJA) and the African Capacity Building Foundation.

The objectives of the course are, amongst others, to improve the understanding of participants, on ethics of journalism, the media and the law, to improve their perspectives, techniques and skills on news collection and news writing.

In her welcoming remarks, Ndey Tapha Sosseh, President of GPU, said that the forum is a unique opportunity for participants, most of whom are mid-career journalists, to not only learn new things but to share experiences. She reaffirmed her organisation’s resolve in building the capacities of its members and the entire fraternity of Gambian journalists.

Mr. Alpha Sall, WAJA Capacity Building Project Co-ordinator, said that WAJA is a consortium of journalists associations in the ECOWAS sub region including Mauritania. He added that The Gambia is a very active and important member of the regional body thus assuring their support for Gambian journalists.

Abdou Karim Sonko, Permanent Secretary deputising the Secretary of State for Information, Communication and Technology, praised the GPU for the initiative, as it will improve the work of the journalists.

He said that journalists are pertinent and have a critical role to play for the country’s socio-economic development. He informed journalists that their duty is to seek for truth and provide a fair, comprehensive and balanced account of events and issues. In conclusion he said, “it’s my fervent hope that this type of training will definitely breed a new generation of seasoned and more responsible journalists who will not use their so called ‘freedom of the press’ by infringing on others’ freedom.”