Africa-Press – Gambia. The Marketing Unit of the Gambia Tourism Board (GTBoard) held an inspiring Career Day forum with students of the Gambia Tourism and Hospitality Institute (GTHI), at the institute’s auditorium in Kanifing, on Thursday, October 30, 2025.
The initiative aims to raise greater awareness of the tourism sector and motivate the youth to take up future roles in shaping Destination Gambia. After insightful presentations from GTBoard tourism experts, students had the opportunity to engage with industry professionals, ask questions, and deepen their understanding of the crucial role tourism plays in The Gambia’s economic growth.
Speaking at the opening of the event, Sheriff Conteh, Deputy Director General of the GTHI, set an ambitious tone for the students. He emphasized the broad applicability of tourism and hospitality education.
“So, finding a job in this industry from this session should not be a burden to you. I promise you, these people you see at the high table, they have long years of experience in this industry,” Mr. Conteh stated. He highlighted that the GTHI curriculum is designed to give students a second foot, or opportunity, in other industries, such as the agricultural or banking sectors.
“This session is going to help you raise that awareness. Working in the tourism and hospitality industry is a vast industry; it’s about eight to nine sectors,” he explained, citing opportunities as a tour guide, tour operator, airport reservation staff, or in-flight catering.
He applauded the GTBoard for the initiative. “This is the best way to do it. Students in school need to know what they will do after graduation.”
Dawda Baldeh, the School Registrar, in his remark, stressed the importance of the Career Day and the students’ role as representatives.
“A career day is very important; share the information you gathered here among your mates because it’s a day dedicated to inspiring your dreams, making them realities, and shaping your ambitions, too.”
He commended the students for choosing the tourism pathway. “Tourism is one of the nation’s leading sectors. Whether you accept it or not, it was agriculture yesterday, but today it’s tourism,” he asserted. “Tourism is the leading sector that touches every community, every enterprise, and every individual who welcomes a guest with a smile.”
He noted that their mission is not only to train students in technical skills, but also involves nurturing their mindset for creativity, resilience, active and positive attitudes toward whatever they do, or doing.”
He reminded the students that by working internationally, they are “representing the Smiling Coast of Africa.”
Ebrima AK Sanyang, Senior Marketing Officer at the GTBoard, speaking on behalf of the Director General, officially welcomed them and highlighted the event’s purpose.
“This day connecting your potential with your professions; the classroom provides the foundation for days like today,” Mr. Sanyang said. “You students are the next generation of managers, tour guides, and entrepreneurs who will define the Smiling Coast of Africa wherever you go.”
Mr. Sanyang then gave the students a clear mission for the day: “Be curious. Be bold and be present. Ask thoughtful questions. Share your perspectives, make a connection, and discover the incredible diversity of impact tourism careers offers, from sustainability and marketing to events and entrepreneurship.”
The forum also included a brief address by Lamin Drammeh, who reinforced the message of representation and continuous engagement.
“The Career Day is meant for you,” he stated. “Where the rest of the students miss, you are the representatives. Do not keep the knowledge to yourself. Give it out to them so that they will understand.”
The event successfully connected GTHI students with experienced professionals, giving them a clear and comprehensive view of the opportunities awaiting them in The Gambia’s thriving tourism sector.
For More News And Analysis About Gambia Follow Africa-Press
