The University of Buea’s Commonwealth Club celebrated Commonwealth Day on March 11, emphasising this year’s theme, “One Resilient Common Future; Transforming Our Common Wealth.” The president of the UB club, Boning Ngueko Nervis, echoed Patricia Scotland, Secretary General of the Commonwealth of Nations, in highlighting the significance of equitable resource sharing.
“Meaning, if you have opportunities or if you’re a youth-led person and you’re working with your team member, try as much as possible that everybody has equal share of opportunities brought to the Association,” the president told MMI.
The commemoration kicked off with a football tournament on March 11, followed by a workshop on Tuesday, centred on public speaking and leadership. The official event highlighted pressing issues, including the impact of littering on the environment and its connection to climate change.
During the interactive session, a participant proposed implementing sanctions through the council to penalise those who litter, emphasising the role of local governance in fostering environmental responsibility. The council’s involvement could act as a deterrent and contribute to a cleaner community and environment.
The Commonwealth of Nations, consisting of 56 member states, addresses diverse challenges, with smaller states advocating for special attention to their unique development needs, including access to essential health resources. The Commonwealth also supports youth empowerment, and gender equality, and promotes unity through sports.
Michel Fonlon, Secretary General of the UB Commonwealth Club, highlighted the club’s commitment to environmental protection, sustainable resource use, and addressing climate change. Additionally, the club provides opportunities for students, to focus on public speaking, leadership, and the mastery of sustainable development goals.
“We help countries protect their environments, use natural resources sustainably, and both tackle and adapt to climate change. We promote democracy, good governance, peace, human rights and the rule of law,” he said.
Nervis, President of the UB Commonwealth Club, shared some of the opportunities available to members, including public speaking training, leadership experiences, and engagement with sustainable development goals. The club’s upcoming event, “Cafe Linguistic,” aims to enhance verbal expression skills among youth.
In collaboration with the American Corners at the University of Buea, the UB Commonwealth Club is dedicated to empowering students and fostering positive change. As the club continues to grow, its impact on the University of Buea and the surrounding community remains significant.
