Dear Friends and Partners
Welcome to our September 2026 update from Kunning Gambia and Great Minds Skills Training Centre (GMSTC). We are pleased to share a short update on activities since our last newsletter in June.
Thank you for continuing to support a safe place for students to learn, develop, and build practical skills.
Crafts and Skills Training
During the last quarter, we held several practical training sessions, including tie and dye (batik) and other crafts. Students enjoyed learning new designs and techniques, and we are proud of the progress they are making.
Gunjur is now in the heart of the rainy season. Heavy rain meant that some sessions had to be cancelled or rescheduled, which is a regular challenge at this time of year. Our team and students also took time for well-earned breaks during the school holidays.
Kunning WhatsApp Girls Group
This week, Kunning Gambia continued its learning sessions in the dedicated WhatsApp Girls Group.
The group was created to help female students learn about Gambian government policies affecting women and global issues relating to women, including rights, health, education, and empowerment.
To make learning interactive, we held a short quiz on this week’s topic. One student answered correctly and received a D200 prize as encouragement for her participation and understanding.
The group aims to build confidence, awareness, and informed discussion among young women. We thank all our supporters who make initiatives like this possible.
Looking Ahead
We are now preparing for the final quarter, which is always our busiest. Planning is under way for the second annual Kunning Gambia Fayre on Saturday 28 November 2026 in Kartong.
The Fayre will take place at Georgianna's Residence Restaurant & Bar and will bring the community together for a lively day of culture, fun and fundraising. Every table will help raise funds to support young girls with school fees, sewing machines, and training that builds skills, confidence, and brighter futures.
Highlights will include fundraising activities, live performances by local artists, food and refreshments, and vendor tables. Vendors will have an opportunity to showcase their goods and help make this an annual community tradition.
We will resume a full timetable of skills sessions as the rain eases. Despite the seasonal disruption, your continued support keeps Kunning Gambia running and helps ensure that students have a safe space to learn and develop.
Support Needed
Two barrels have been purchased to collect donated craft materials. Once full, they will be shipped from the UK to The Gambia. The barrels are due to be collected for shipping on 9 October 2026.
Donations of craft materials will help support future skills sessions and give students more opportunities to learn and create.
Dates to Note
- Tie and dye classes: every Sunday, 10am to 2pm.
- Kunning Gambia Fayre: Saturday 28 November 2026, 12 noon to 4pm.
- Community markets: dates to be confirmed.
- Parents Afternoon and Best Students Awards: December 2026.
Contact Information
If you would like to support any of our activities, please contact the Kunning Gambia and GMSTC team.
Email: kunninggambia21@gmail.com
Website: www.kunninggambia.org
Warm regards,
The Kunning Gambia / GMSTC Team
Gunjur, The Gambia