Seven Gambian students -  six doctors and one engineer - who returned recently from Moscow, Russia, where they studied at the People's Friendship University, formerly called Patrice Lumumba University, for the past 7 years, have extended gratitude and appreciation to the Gambian leader, His Excellency Sheikh Professor Alhaji Dr Yahya Jammeh, after successfully completing their studies.

Five of the seven beneficiaries, who walked into the Daily Observer offices, last Thursday, on behalf of the entire team, commended President Jammeh and described him as a visionary leader who has  manifested  his interest in the education of Gambians thus enabling them to  attain  education at the highest level.

Dr Babanding Daffeh, one of the beneficiaries, said in 2001, 5 Gambian students were sent to study in Russia, in 2002, 18 students were sent and in 2003, 18 students were again sent, bringing the total number of doctors and engineers who studied in Russia to 41, from 2001 to date. He thanked President Jammeh for the sponsorship.

Dr Masirending Njie, another beneficiary, thanked President Jammeh and Faud Said for their support. He revealed that currently 16 students have completed their studies, while others are still pursuing their degrees in the Russian federation. Dr Njie also thanked President Jammeh for the scholarship, the Gambian embassy in Senegal and France for assisting them on their way back home. He revealed that currently 16 students have completed their courses. Ousainou Ndire, the only engineering  student among the seven, described the scholarship as timely. He also extended gratitude and appreciation to the Gambian leader for his support during their stay in Russia. Ndire observed that President Jammeh's government has implemented a lot of development projects in all the sectors.

He described President Jammeh as a role model and a dynamic leader who has his country at heart. Dr Lucas Jatta, another beneficiary, also thanked President Jammeh and his government, their parents, friends, loved ones, the Gambian students' Association in Moscow and all those who supported them in one way or the other during their stay in Moscow. He  thanked the Russian government for allowing them to do such courses in their country.

Dr Lamin Janneh, another beneficiary, extended great appreciation to President  Jammeh  for giving them the  opportunity to study in Russia. He spoke at length on the new developments in the health sector and promised that they are ready to work for their country, The Gambia.