CJMA twins UK School

Charles Jaw Memorial Academy (CJMA) in Bundung and Shelfield Comprehensive Secondary School (SCSS) in the United Kingdom, on Monday signed a twin accord presided over by Yankuba Colley , mayor of Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC), at a ceremony held at the school ground.

The new accord aimed to further strengthen bilateral ties between the two schools. It will also promote a share diverse cultural  heritage common to both institutions, among other things and to further strengthen cooperation in various fields of mutual interest to both institutions namely adult training, socio-cultural education, quality and relevant education,  among other areas of interest.

Speaking at the ceremony, Ousman Alieu Ndow, chairperson, Board of Governors of Charles Jaw Memorial Academy said, the signing of the twinning accord will not only be of interest to both institutions but the two countries as well.

He described the move as another positive step in further cementing the bilateral relationship that already existed between the institutions.

" I want to challenge you the students to make the best use of the link by making new friends  which is the most important aspect in student’s life," he said.

For her part, Anna John Ceesay, regional education directorate, Region One, urged Shelfield Comprehensive Secondary School to explore the Gambian hospitality adding that this kind of bond is crucial in the development of socio-cultural activities.

She then expressed her office’s commitment in the attainment of quality education in The Gambia.

Norinda Kaur, a representative of Shelfield Comprehensive  Secondary School commended the pupils for the tumultuous welcome accorded to them. "We hope to learn from our different cultures and backgrounds for the benefits of our schools and we look forward to a fruitful partnership ,"she remarked.

In his remarks, Alpha Khan, principal of Charles Jaw Memorial Academy, commended the architect of the bond  in the person of professor Roy Low for his untiring efforts.

He  also recognised Norinda Kaur, Racheal Carles and Claire Watkins who had sacrifice their valuable resources coming all the way from England.

"This twinning programme between CJMA and SSCC would not have been possible without the foresight and encouragement of professor Low. Since the proposal for getting this twinning was conceived, almost all stakeholders have eagerly been anticipating your arrival and formalisation of this noble mission," he said.

Mr Khan further revealed that his school was founded in 1997 by the KMC as a test case of local government intervention in the education sector. He noted that his school has registered  tremendous progress during the past ten years.

"One thing that distinguishes CJMA from many other schools is the high standard of discipline of our pupils and teachers. However, the academy is a rapidly growing centre of learning and discipline  as it is a relatively small institution with lofty aims and aspirations for the future," Mr Khan told their visiting counterparts.

Yankuba  Colley, Mayor of Kanifing Municipal Council said  the academy always make his office proud to be associated with the school noting that there is high hope that the new bond will be beneficial to both institutions.

"My office will continue to support the school when necessary in their quest to attain quality education . I want to assure the visiting counterparts to feel at home, relax," and enjoy their stay" he said.

Other speakers at the ceremony included; Babou Johm, chairperson  parent teachers association (PTA). The deputy head girl of CJMA  delivered the vote of thanks. The ceremony was characterised by cultural displays by  students of different local ethnic groups in the country.