University of Buea Journalism Students Raise Over 1.4M FCFA to Renovate Chariot Radio

Chariot Radio, the training radio station of the University of Buea’s Department of Journalism and Mass Communication (JMC), is scheduled for renovation following a successful fundraising campaign.

Current and former journalism students collectively raised 1.4 million FCFA during a two-day event on June 12 and 13, 2025. This marked the 30th anniversary of the Association of Student Journalists at the University of Buea (ASJUB).

The fundraising initiative took place at the University’s open commons, where alumni and present students gathered with faculty members. The main objective was to discuss the future of the department and ways to support its advancement.

Fundraising Led by Longstanding Department Contributor

The drive to revamp Chariot Radio was overseen by Dr. Ndoh Bertha, the department’s first female lecturer and current board chair of Cameroon’s national refinery, SONARA. Despite her executive position, Dr. Bertha continues to actively support the department.

“The fundraising effort, which aimed to upgrade the radio station’s deteriorating equipment, saw a positive response from alumni and current students, with a total of 1,271,000 FCFA pledged and 175,000 FCFA received in cash, bringing the total amount raised to 1,446,000 FCFA,” ASJUB noted in a statement.

The association added that the target is 2,895,000 FCFA. This amount would cover the acquisition of essential broadcast and studio equipment, including a 1 KW transmitter, audio console, microphones, computers, digital recorders, headsets, blinds, carpets, chairs, and tables.

Department Head Applauds Alumni Engagement

Head of Department Nengieh Lizzie praised the initiative, describing it as a meaningful contribution to the department’s development and a reflection of its evolution since 1993.

“It is very important for us to celebrate this 30th anniversary… Leadership is shared, and as the head of the department, you need assistance not only from the administrative staff but also from the students,” she said.

Dr. Ndoh Bertha, often referred to as the “Mother of JMC,” donated 500,000 FCFA during the event. Reflecting on the department’s origins, she remarked:

“When I talk about JMC, I think about the early days… We started with 30 students, and now I see a lot of students, but I am impressed that the family legacy is still there. The legacy that we want to leave behind is for the students to have a platform where they can exercise their abilities, learn, and appreciate what we have.”

Chariot Radio Renovation to Enhance Training

ASJUB noted that the funds raised would go toward upgrading Chariot Radio, enabling students to benefit from improved equipment and facilities vital for practical journalism training.

“As ASJUB continues to grow and evolve, the revamp of Chariot Radio will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of journalists,” the association stated.

Student Achievements Recognized During Celebration

The 30th anniversary also included awards for outstanding student performance in various journalism categories. Students were recognized based on contributions to media production, leadership, and creativity within the department.

Major Award Winners:

• Enoh Tanjong Student Leader of the Year: Tajong Moses
• Student Leader of the Year – Level 400: Nsoyuka Guy-Bruno
• Student Leader of the Year – Level 300: Dobgima Tracy Vakkilla
• Student Leader of the Year – Level 200: Njambe Wisdom
• Enoh Tanjong All-Rounder Student Journalist of the Year (2025): Bekali Cyprain
• Most Creative Content Creator: Akonjoh Princely

Additional Award Categories:

• Best News Anchor: Jordanie Ngouanfo
• Most Informative TikToker: Nfor Tracy and Nkemta Miracle
• Best News Producer: Seilenu Precious Indah
• Artfully Creative Awards:
  • Spoken Word Poetry: Mbah Kera
  • Public Speaking: Ngum Godwill
  • Acting/Singing: Moki Becky Mende
• Best Newspaper Reporter: Nsoyuka Guy-Bruno
• Best Newspaper Editor: Ngang Nadege Fungwa

The 30th anniversary of ASJUB marked a significant milestone for the department, serving not only as a reunion but as a strategic step toward strengthening the academic and practical infrastructure of journalism training at the University of Buea.

MMI