Building sustainable dental education in a resource-challenged setting: a case study of The Gambian undergraduate model
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Abstract
Background: The Gambia faces a severe deficit of oral health professionals leading to high unmet treatment needs. Previously
heavily reliant on expatriates, the country lacked formal undergraduate dental training.
Method: This case study describes the development, implementation, and initial outcomes of the first homegrown undergraduate
dental programme at the University of The Gambia (UTG). Established in 2018, the six-year Bachelor of Dental Surgery programme
utilized an inter-ministerial partnership and technical assistance from Nigerian institutions. The curriculum emphasizes early
clinical shadowing, community outreach, and independent clinical practice, supported by international visiting faculty and existing
teaching hospital facilities.
Result: Despite significant financial constraints, infrastructure limitations, and faculty shortages, pioneer students successfully
progressed through clinical postings and examinations, securing partial accreditation from the Medical and Dental Council of The
Gambia. The homegrown model proved more cost-effective and culturally relevant compared to traditional overseas scholarships.
Conclusion: The UTG model demonstrates that sustainable dental education is achievable in resource-challenged settings through
strategic partnerships. It offers a replicable framework for similar African contexts. Sustained investment, local faculty
development, and robust retention strategies are crucial to prevent brain drain, thereby ensuring universal oral health coverage for
the Gambian population.
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