British diplomat visits UB to explore collaborative opportunities

By Beatrice Manka’a

Cameroon’s first Anglo-Saxon university, the University of Buea (UB), and the British High Commission in Yaoundé have explored ways to foster collaboration.

The Second Secretary of Political Affairs at the British High Commission, Natasha Hosford, was in UB on February 29 to discuss areas of mutual cooperation between both parties.

She also exchanged with UB officials information on best practices from UK universities.

The meeting, which was attended by the University’s Registrar Eneke Agbor Bechem and other officials, aimed to explore avenues for graduates of the University of Buea to enroll in UK universities.

Discussions revolved around academic support, with mention of various funds set up by the British Government to replace those lost due to the departure of the UK from the EU.

One of the focal points of the interaction was the future of Cameroon and the collaboration between policymakers and the community.

Ms. Hosford emphasized that one of the key priorities for the new British High Commission is elections and how the British Government is supporting initiatives in the South West Region.

This visit, which covered Douala, Limbe, and Buea, sought to understand the realities and challenges faced by individuals in these towns.

The University of Buea visit was particularly crucial, offering insights into opportunities and the potential utilization of youth power and academic research in broader initiatives.

After engaging with students during the discussions, Ms. Natasha Hosford shared her observations with MMI.

“After the discussions with the students here, I think there are some key areas of opportunity for greater collaboration such as the environment and biodiversity,” she said.

She highlighted a large program set to begin on the Congo Basin Forest, emphasizing the potential for collaboration in Cameroon.

The British Government has a long history of collaboration with Cameroon in the area of education, having laid the foundation of Anglo-Saxon education in the country’s English-speaking Regions.

Ms. Hosford assured that there are opportunities for collaboration between UK institutions, UK businesses investing internationally, and academic institutions like the University of Buea.

These collaborations could involve support with physical resources, infrastructural development, and the sharing of capabilities and skills.

©Mimi Mefo Info