Our history
Explore how we've evolved from offering certificate and diploma programs in TVET fields to becoming a university that delivers degree programs in engineering, technology, and applied sciences.
USET has a proud history rooted in the development of technical and vocational education in The Gambia. Its origins date back to 1980, when the Gambia Technical Training Institute (GTTI) was established by an Act of Parliament. GTTI was created to address the critical need for skilled technical and vocational professionals at the middle and sub-professional levels, supporting the country's growing infrastructure and economic development.
GTTI began operations in 1983, offering Craft-level programs in a variety of technical and commercial disciplines. These programs were accredited by internationally recognized bodies such as the City and Guilds of London Institute (CGLI), the Royal Society of Arts (RSA), and the Pitman Examination Board, ensuring that graduates met global standards.
Over the years, GTTI expanded its offerings to meet the evolving needs of The Gambia's workforce. The institute introduced Full Technological Certificate (FTC) and Diploma programmes, as well as teacher training programs, ranging from initial and further education to higher teacher training. A significant milestone was the introduction of the Bachelor's Degree in Community Building and Design (BCBD), offered in collaboration with Dalhousie University in Canada and the University of The Gambia. This program marked GTTI's transition into higher education and laid the groundwork for its future transformation.
GTTI also introduced Higher National Diploma (HND) programs in Engineering, Construction, and Computer Science, further solidifying its reputation as the leading provider of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in The Gambia.
In early 2020, GTTI underwent a transformative evolution, becoming the Gambia University of Applied Science, Engineering, and Technology (USET). This initiative is part of the World Bank Africa Centers of Excellence (ACE) for Development Impact Project, funded by the World Bank in close partnership with The Gambia Government. The transformation marked a new chapter in the institution's history, enabling it to offer degree programs in applied sciences, engineering, and technology while continuing its legacy of vocational and technical training. As part of this evolution, USET's Africa Centre of Excellence in Science, Technology, and Engineering for Entrepreneurship (STEE) collaborates with institutions such as Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Ghana, and De Montfort University (DMU), UK, to enhance faculty training, scientific research, and technology development.
Today, USET is a dynamic institution comprising three main institutes:
- College of Science and Engineering (CoSE): Offering degree of Science programmes in Civil, Electrical/Electronic, and Mechanical Engineering.
- Institute of Technology (IoT): Providing non-degree courses in various Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) disciplines.
- Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (IoIE): Delivering professional and innovation-driven courses to nurture entrepreneurial mindsets.
With a strong foundation built over four decades, USET remains committed to its mission of providing high-quality education, fostering innovation, and addressing the technical and vocational human resource needs of The Gambia and beyond.