Senior Management Functions

As the Administrative Head of the Ministry, the Permanent Secretary serves as the Minister's chief policy advisor and makes recommendations to ensure good governance within the Ministry. The PS advises the Minister on policy formulation and delegates responsibilities to the Deputy Permanent Secretaries, Directors and Unit Heads. He directs and controls the activities of the directorates and units within the Ministry, is responsible for official correspondences, prepares memoranda for the Cabinet on behalf of the Minister, and ensures that decisions made by the Cabinet, or the Minister are effectively implemented. The Permanent Secretary is the Ministry's Accounting Officer and Vote Controller, ensuring good fiduciary governance practices and implementation.
The PS;

1. Provides overall administrative and managerial leadership of the Ministry, ensuring the effective and efficient functioning of all directorates and units.
2. Implements policies and directives issued by the Minister, translating them into actionable plans and programmes.
3. Reviews reports and briefings and validates other documentation related to the Ministry's activities for internal and external stakeholders.
4. Coordinates, supervises, and delegates the Deputy Permanent Secretaries, Directors and other senior officials in the Ministry, fostering teamwork and collaboration.

In summary, the Permanent Secretary balances policy advice, coordination, and oversight to facilitate efficient functioning and governance within the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology.

The Deputy Permanent Secretary – Administration and Finance (DPS A&F deputises the Permanent Secretary and, through the Permanent Secretary’s supervision, ensures the efficient management of the Ministry's resources. The Deputy Permanent Secretary – Administration and Finance oversees administrative and financial functions. By managing human resources, budgeting, and financial reporting, the Deputy Permanent Secretary – Administration and Finance ensures that the Ministry operates effectively within its financial and legal frameworks. Through adherence to best practices and compliance with regulations, this role contributes to the Ministry's transparency and accountability, fostering trust and confidence among stakeholders. The Deputy Permanent Secretary – Administration and Finance oversees the administration of the Ministry in the absence of the Permanent Secretary.
On behalf of, and in coordination with the Permanent Secretary, the Deputy Permanent Secretary – Administration and Finance:

1. Oversees the Ministry's administrative and financial management functions, ensuring compliance with regulations, policies, and procedures.
2. Develops and implements sound financial management systems, including budgeting, accounting, and procurement processes, to ensure the effective and efficient use of resources.
3. Monitors and evaluates the financial performance of the Ministry, prepares financial reports, and provides recommendations for improved financial decision-making.

As the Deputy Permanent Secretary – Technical, deputises the Permanent Secretary and, through the Permanent Secretary’s supervision, ensures the provision of technical expertise and guidance to the Ministry. Responsible for overseeing the technical aspects of the Ministry's work, the Deputy Permanent Secretary – Technical ensures that best practices and evidence-based research inform policies, programmes, and initiatives. By coordinating the work of technical departments and units, the Deputy Permanent Secretary – Technical promotes synergy and collaboration, driving innovation and excellence in the sector. Through engagement with stakeholders and partners, the Deputy Permanent Secretary – Technical ensures that the Ministry's efforts are aligned with national priorities and international standards, contributing to The Gambia's development agenda. The Deputy Permanent Secretary – Technical oversees the administration of the Ministry in the absence of the Permanent Secretary and the Deputy Permanent Secretary – Administration and Finance.
On behalf of, and in coordination with the Permanent Secretary, the Deputy Permanent Secretary – Technical:

1. Provides technical expertise and guidance in higher education, research, science, technology, and innovation, ensuring the development and implementation of relevant policies and programmes that align with national priorities.
2. Coordinates the planning, development, and evaluation of higher education curricula, research programmes, and technological advancements in collaboration with relevant institutions and stakeholders.
3. Monitors and evaluates the quality and relevance of higher education institutions, research projects, and scientific endeavours, recommending improvements and corrective actions as necessary.
4. Facilitates establishing and maintaining partnerships and collaborations with national and international organisations to enhance research capacity, knowledge exchange, and innovation.
5. Oversees the implementation of scholarships, grants, and funding schemes to support students, researchers, and institutions in pursuing academic and research excellence.
6. Provides technical advice and support to the Directors and Unit Heads on higher education, research, science, and technology matters.
7. Coordinates drafting reports, briefings, and other documentation related to the Ministry's activities for internal and external stakeholders.(Mandates)