Francis Sarr is a professor of public health policy and health education, a fellow of the West African College of Nursing, and the founding dean of the School of Graduate Studies and Research of the University of The Gambia. Sarr’s educational journey includes The Gambia School of Nursing and Midwifery (SRN Cert.); Pharmacy Department at The Gambia’s Ministry of Health (Medical Aide Cert.); Cuttington University College, Liberia (BSc Nursing); University of Wales, Cardiff (M. Ed); London University School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (MSc & Post-graduate Diploma, Public Health); London University Institute of Child Health (Nutrition & Child Health Cert.); and London South Bank University (PhD in Public Health concentration).

Professor Sarr is a seasoned educator and public health strategist whose career spans over four decades of service across West Africa. Known for his visionary leadership in curriculum development, institutional reform, and civic formation, Prof. Sarr has shaped national and regional efforts in education, healthcare, and ethical governance.

The outcome of these experiences of Sarr is that he was able to write several articles and two books on public/community health education for health professionals. His scholarly pursuits have recently focused more keenly on public health policies that countries can use to improve health, but which need to be addressed by health researchers. So far, he has published seven peer-reviewed books in this area, including these poignant, captivating, and informative works: Major Challenges Facing Public Health Policymaking and Potential Solutions, The Role of Non-Research Evidence in Evidence-Based Public Health Policymaking, and Preparing and Responding to Pandemics: A Public Policy Approach. A dedicated public health scholar and practitioner, Sarr is passionate about innovative approaches to healthcare education and practice in the global South.

He has played a central role in advancing academic excellence at the University of The Gambia (UTG), where, along with others, he led the development of the university’s first PhD programs, chaired strategic planning initiatives, and coordinated major curriculum reviews in partnership with regional institutions. His work continues to influence policy, faculty development, and quality assurance across higher education.

Prof. Sarr’s contributions to public health are equally impactful. He has served as a consultant to WHO, UNICEF, and the Global Fund, helping integrate key health priorities—such as maternal care, mental health, and infectious disease prevention—into national training curricula. His leadership in nursing education and health systems reform has earned him recognition across ECOWAS networks and professional bodies.

Beyond academia and policy, Prof. Sarr is deeply committed to community service. He has supported Catholic parish initiatives, led health education and screening programs, and contributed to youth development through philanthropic projects. His work reflects a lifelong dedication to empowering communities through knowledge, compassion, and practical action.

Whether mentoring future leaders, shaping national frameworks, or building bridges across institutions, Prof. Sarr remains a steadfast advocate for equity, excellence, and service.