Following the National Leaders Fellowship held in Douala from August 14 to 16, 2024, plans for the establishment of a new Baptist University in Cameroon were officially announced. This significant development marks a milestone in the Cameroon Baptist Convention’s (CBC) commitment to expanding its educational and spiritual outreach.
During the meeting, leaders revealed that efforts are underway to secure authorization from the Cameroonian government for the creation of this university. The proposed institution aims to provide tertiary education with a strong foundation in Christian values, ensuring that academic excellence is paired with spiritual and moral development.
The fellowship brought together leaders from various departments and ministries of the CBC, who discussed a range of issues including evangelism, healthcare, and education. The CBC has a long history of involvement in education, operating institutions such as the Baptist Training School for Health Personnel in Kumbo, established in 1955, and the Baptist Institute for Health Sciences in Mbingo. Additionally, the CBC runs the Center for Clinical Pastoral Education and Social Services (CECPES), which trains chaplains as counselors.
The Baptist Theological Seminary in Ndu, the oldest institution under the CBC, has been a focal point of theological education since its founding in 1947. Over the years, there have been growing calls to elevate the seminary to a full-fledged university, with the seminary serving as the Faculty of Theology.
The creation of the Baptist University in Cameroon is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the nation’s educational landscape. By promoting ethical values, engaging with the community, and contributing to the country’s overall development, the university is expected to make a lasting impact on both the academic and spiritual lives of its students and the wider society.