Cameroon bid farewell to one of its towering intellectuals and political figures, Professor. Hubert Nkoulou, who passed away at the age of 95. Dr. Nkoulou’s journey was marked by pioneering achievements in the realm of science and medicine, leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s history.
Professor. Hubert Nkoulou breathed his last on Thursday, February 22, in Yaoundé, after a prolonged illness. “He had been battling illness for a long time, and it finally took its toll,” explained a close family source, encapsulating the sentiments of many who revered the late luminary.
Hailing from the proud province of Lekie, Dr. Nkoulou carved a distinguished path as the second Cameroonian to achieve the prestigious title of Professor of Medicine, following in the footsteps of Professor René Essomba. His accolades included being an engineer, a Doctor of Science, an administrator, a hospital specialist, and an esteemed professor of medicine.
Born on October 18, 1929, in Olembé near Batchenga, Dr. Hubert Nkoulou embarked on his academic journey at the Catholic Mission of Bafia for his primary education. He continued his studies at the Petit Séminaire of Akono for his secondary education before advancing to the Lycée Général Leclerc in Yaoundé.
Following his graduation with a Bachelor’s degree in Experimental Sciences in 1956, he pursued higher education at the Conservatoire des Arts et Métiers in 1960. Concurrently, he enrolled at the Faculty of Medicine in Paris and later Bordeaux, where he obtained his Doctorate in Medicine in 1963. In 1968, he earned a Doctorate in Science from Lausanne, Switzerland. That same year, he also received a Specialized Studies Certificate in Pediatrics from Lausanne. Additionally, he held diplomas in Tropical Medicine, Parasitology, a Specialized Studies Certificate in Pediatric Nephrology, and ultimately, an Aggregation in Pediatrics and Medical Genetics, achieved in Paris in 1971.
The departure of Dr. Hubert Nkoulou leaves a void in the academic, medical, and political spheres of Cameroon. However, his legacy as a pioneer, scholar, and leader will continue to inspire generations to come. As Cameroon mourns his passing, it also celebrates the extraordinary life and contributions of a true giant among men.
