The basic structure of the education system in The Gambia provides for the expansion of basic education (ECD, Basic Education 1 – 9 and Adult and Non-formal Education) and Secondary Education.
The formal system is marked by 9 years of continuous basic education followed by 3 years of senior secondary education and four years of post-secondary or tertiary and higher education.
The first 9 years of schooling make up the basic education route and is financed mainly by The Government while secondary school education, which lasts 3 years, is primarily provided by the private sector with grant-aided schools assisted by Government and managed by school boards.
In line with the Dakar Framework for Action on EFA, the basic education Programme is composed of the following areas:
• Early Child Care
• Basic Education (from Grades 1-9)
• Adult and Non-Formal Education