The Contribution of Higher Education and Economic Development in the Gambia

Abstract

It is essential to note that several countries, both African and non-African, have drawn considerable  conclusions regarding the relationship between higher education and economic development in The  Gambia, where education is the overarching theme that encompasses all the other sub-themes. The  relationship has been proven to be a direct one in most countries; however, certain infrastructure needs  must exist to achieve economic development. Funding was one of the key issues in African education  systems that needed to be addressed, including specialized enrollment plans to encourage women's  participation in education, especially at secondary education levels. This research has determined the key  role that women play in creating an economically developed country by participating in sectors such as the  agricultural industry. Moreover, the study of other countries helped develop more ideas on how The  Gambia could maintain a higher level of education with the existing resources. Ethiopia, a country having  a similar potential and economic environment to The Gambia, proved to be very useful as it draws a high  correlation between higher education and economic development. Another significant finding in this  research was the tourism sector, which is often neglected by poorer countries. However, with its unique  resources, The Gambia can utilize them to its advantage, similarly to Northern Cyprus. Finally, the most  significant negative impact of corruption is on a country’s development process, making it extremely  challenging to achieve economic growth.