A child was born at Glouster Street in the city of Banjul, and that child's name was Ousman Alieu Ndow. He was born to Alagie Alieu Ndow and Aji Fatou Samba. That child registered 77 years of an honorable, simple and worthy life. Throughout his life, Mr. Ousman Ndow unambiguously demonstrated that truth, dignity and principle must never be compromised, and he always upheld what he held to be true and just. He was a service oriented person, and recognized it very early. Teaching and education were his passion and he dedicated every fiber of his being to them.
Mr. Ndow started teaching English and Literature at Gambia High School at age 17, after graduating from Boys High School. He taught at and managed many schools, including Armitage High School. Muhammedan Primary School, Njawara Primary School, SOS Hermann Gmeiner Secondary School, Daddy Jobe Senior Secondary to name a few. He was a fighter for teachers as well and later became the President of the Gambia Teacher’s Union from 1987 – 1992, fighting for the rights of teachers and the noble work that they do.
To advance the careers of teachers, Mr. Ndow initiated and directed the upgrading course for unqualified teachers, accordingly, ensuring that thousands of teachers achieve qualified teachers’ status to boost their profession. He also initiated and establish the international cooperation between GTU (Gambia Teachers Union) and other teacher organizations. He is also credited for his efforts in organizing the first National Conference on Education in The Gambia in 1987.His commitment to teaching was unmatched and he did everything in his power to help improve the field.
During his time at the Ministry of Education, Mr. Ndow served in different capacities and rose through the ranks to the position of Chief Education Officer. This role was a unique and dynamic. The position requires careful program planning and management as well as spending a significant time nurturing external relationships. It was a position that demanded strong leadership and vision. From there, he retired in 1995.
But that was retirement in name only. Mr. Ndow continued to serve as a board member on various school boards, served as the President of The Gambia Red Cross Society in the late 1990’s to early 2000’s (a demonstration of commitment to serve humankind), and served a term as the Chairman of the respectable West African Examination Council (WAEC) from 2003 to 2006. His proven record in education delivery led to his appointment as Chairman of the National Advisory Council on Education for many years until his passing.
Sharing knowledge and developing minds were Mr. Ndow's calling and he impacted many lives in the process. As an educator, he was a father to many by default, and he treated every student with care and compassion. He was a communal father. His kindness and generous spirit were beyond measure, his honesty and integrity, exceptional, and his wisdom boundless. To further demonstrate his commitment and passion for education, he established Kairaba Junior and Senior Secondary School from his own resources. The school currently cares for students who might have otherwise get pushed out of the system. Kairaba Junior and Senior Secondary school have now been in existence for 15 years.
In his memory and honor, The Gambia Teaches Union recently decided to name one of its building, Ousman A. Ndow Memorial Conference Hall, for his contributions in building the organization. He served with diligence and passion, and his service voyage lasted sixty years. May his soul rest in peace and his spirit keeps on giving.
