The Gambia Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) has launched the ‘𝑷𝑼𝑹𝑨 𝑺𝒕𝒖𝒅𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝑨𝒎𝒃𝒂𝒔𝒔𝒂𝒅𝒐𝒓𝒔‘ programme, aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of its mandate among students. 

Currently in its pilot phase, this initiative involves students from Gambia Methodist Academy, Nusrat Senior Secondary School, and Gambia Senior Secondary School, spanned from 29th to 31st May 2024. 

It was meant to broaden the knowledge and understanding of participating students about PURA’s regulatory functions and activities.  

 During the three-day induction, students received lectures from various PURA directorates, equipping them with the necessary insights and knowledge to appreciate the institution’s roles and efforts, especially in consumer protection and effective service delivery. 

 The program also included visits to the customer care centers of the country’s GSM operators, the NAWEC Customer Care Centre, and the Water Treatment Plant in Sukuta. The initiative is part of the Directorate of Consumer Affairs strategy to diversify its awareness campaigns by engaging young people, aiming for greater visibility and impact. 

Addressing the students at the beginning of the program, Burama Jammeh, Director of Economic Regulations, who spoke on behalf of the Director-General of PURA, highlighted the significant role young people play in socio-economic development.  

 Mr. Jammeh emphasized young people’s potential to influence and drive community engagement and education. He also expressed optimism that the students’ contributions would enhance PURA’s public awareness efforts, particularly in consumer protection. At the same time, he encouraged the students to leverage this partnership to make meaningful contributions to their communities and the country at large.  

 Mrs. Jamilatou Saidy, Acting Director of Consumer Affairs, reiterated the Directorate’s commitment to prioritising awareness creation in dispensing quality service delivery to the public.  

She emphasized that raising public awareness and education is crucial for holding operators accountable to ensure a level playing field for all corporations. 

 Mrs. Saidy further explained that the ‘𝑷𝑼𝑹𝑨 𝑺𝒕𝒖𝒅𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝑨𝒎𝒃𝒂𝒔𝒔𝒂𝒅𝒐𝒓𝒔‘ initiative has plans for a nationwide expansion, targeting students and communities in provincial Gambia. 

 The ‘𝑷𝑼𝑹𝑨 𝑺𝒕𝒖𝒅𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝑨𝒎𝒃𝒂𝒔𝒔𝒂𝒅𝒐𝒓𝒔‘ Programme represents a strategic move to engage the younger generation in understanding and advocating for regulatory practices aimed at building a more informed and proactive citizenry in national development.