The University of Buea (UB) has conferred bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD degrees on over 5,000 students in a graduation ceremony celebrated in three days.
The 26th convocation of the institution happened in Buea from January 9 to 11, 2025.
The event was presided over by UB’s Vice Chancellor, Ngomo Harace Manga, on behalf of the Minister of Higher Education, Jacques Fame Ndongo.
“The convocation is the major indicator of a successful academic year,” UB VC Ngomo Harace Manga said.
He said the graduation proved that the university had fulfilled its mission, which is that of teaching, research and outreach.
“It’s been very fulfilling for the students,” he said, adding that the graduation was a “remarkable event in the lives of the graduates,” and their families are happy for the investments.
The VC said graduation’s uniqueness is that it allows parents to verify if their children have a degree.
“Elsewhere, it’s not like that. So we are very proud of what we do.”
Potential Drop in Doctorate Graduates
Responding to questions from journalists, the VC said the number of those graduating with PhDs may drop in subsequent years.
That is because the government has suspended doctorate degree programs in state universities.
Those graduating now with PhD degrees had enrolled into the program before the government suspension.
The UB Vice Chancellor, however, stated that once the government lifts the ban, they will resume admitting students.
UB Honors Businesswoman With Doctorate
During the occasion, businesswoman Kate Kanyi Tometi, who is Cameroon’s richest woman, was awarded an honorary doctorate degree in business management.
The university was acknowledging her contributions to advancing the education of thousands of UB students, including the vulnerable.
Last year, she announced an annual scholarship of FCFA 50 million per year to the University of Buea to encourage outstanding students and help those who are less privileged.
She said the offer would run for five years.
Thanks to the scholarship, beneficiary students, among them those with disabilities, received FCFA 50,000 yearly.
“Her generosity is tilted towards the training of youths,” the UB Vice Chancellor said.
“We want to use the honor we have given to our sister, a daughter who grew up in this environment, to show others that her contribution to the development,” he added.
This was the first time that the University of Buea was graduating students in January instead of December.
