The Gambia has become the latest African country to invest in technology-driven learning tools as governments face rising pressure to equip young people with digital skills, reduce unemployment, and close education gaps.
Officials say the new Digital Leap App could help students learn independently in a country where access to advanced learning tools is limited.
Pastor Adeboye Calls App ‘A Beacon of Hope’
Africa Missions Global Visionaire, Pastor Folu Adeboye, has endorsed The Gambia’s new Digital Leap App, describing it as “a remarkable milestone” in efforts to prepare young Africans for the future.
Her goodwill message was delivered on Saturday at the launch held at the Dauda Jawara International Conference Centre in Banjul.
Adeboye, represented by the Global Executive Administrator of Africa Missions Global, Bukola Oguntibeju, said the initiative aligns with the organisation’s Horizon 2033 Vision, a long-term framework for education, skills, and humanitarian development.
She said the App represents “a bold and timely step towards transforming the future of education and employability in Africa,” adding that Africa Missions Global remains committed to impacting “over 100 million lives globally.”
Adeboye praised partners, government officials, teachers, and development actors for supporting the launch, calling the project “a beacon of hope bridging the gap between education and livelihood through technology, mentorship, and value-driven learning.”
She also stressed that future-focused education must promote tolerance and compassion, saying these values are essential for “sustainable development, reduced inequality, and a more compassionate society.”
Government Endorsement: Youth Must Become ‘Architects of Progress’
The Vice President of The Gambia, Mohammed B.S. Jallow represented by Defence Minister Baboucar Ismaila Joof, who also oversees Trade and Industry urged African governments to prioritise young people as “drivers of progress.”
Speaking on the theme Building Our Future Together, he called for more investments in quality education, digital skills, and job creation.
He said young people, who form the majority of the population, should not only benefit from development initiatives but play active roles in shaping them.
Africa Missions Global Highlights Local Impact
The Regional Coordinator of Africa Missions Global – The Gambia, Dr Sesan Akinnawo, said the launch builds on years of educational and community programmes across the country.
He listed interventions such as distributing ICT equipment to public-school teachers and offering social support programmes, saying the new App deepens their work in the region.Akinnawo described the Digital Leap App — developed in partnership with the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education and other partners, as a tool designed to help students “learn independently, think creatively, and build the digital literacy skills needed for the 21st century.”
How the App Works
Technical partner Dr Fola Ojuola said the App uses AI-enabled learning guides to help students explore subjects, choose suitable career paths, and prepare for the job market.He said the design is meant to encourage creativity while supporting learners who may not have access to high-quality educational materials.
Industry reactions
Analysts say digital learning tools have grown more important as African countries grapple with overcrowded classrooms, teacher shortages, and limited access to specialised subjects.
Education technology professionals said that projects such as the Digital Leap App could expand access but will require strong infrastructure and teacher support for long-term success.
What’s next
The Gambia’s Education Ministry is expected to roll out the App across public schools in phases.
Africa Missions Global says it will continue providing technical support, training, and monitoring to ensure the App reaches students in underserved communities.