By Stephen Njumbe Sako
The University of Buea in Cameroon, graduated its sixteenth batch of students on Saturday, December 17, 2011. Christened 'Generation of Hope,'who have been called upon to be good ambassadors of the institution', the graduation marked an important milestone in the life of the University. Presiding over the convocation ceremony on behalf of the Minister of Higher Education, Prof. Jacques Fame Ndongo, the Pro-Chancellor of the University of Buea, Prof. Maurice Tchuente while congratulating the graduands said, 'the training they have received in UB meets international standards.' He however urged them to put the skills they have acquired into good use in order to construct a solid foundation for their professional lives. He cautioned them to ''focus on that which is essential'' and continue with this principle as they move into the world.
Prof. Tchuente used the event to laud government's effort to improve and increase the infrastructure at UB. At the moment, three new faculties have been established, which include the Faculties of Engineering and Technology, Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine and the College of Technology. These Faculties and college have diversed training programmes and come at a time when the Ministry of Higher Education places strong emphasis on the professionalisation of university programmes.
The University used the occasion to showcase its Campus-annex created for the Faculty of Health Sciences, located at Mile 18 in Buea. The students of this Faculty received their first lectures in the new campus on Monday, December 5, 2011.
These projects, according to Prof. Tchuente illustrate that the 'Policy of Greater Realisation' as described by the Head of State, will be a reality even at the University of Buea.
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Buea, Prof. Vincent P.K Titanji in his keynote address said the graduands have not only gained the necessary skills in their respective fields of specialisation, but have also acquired the necessary training to suit the demands of the ever competitive job market.
Prof. Titanji used the occasion to thank Government for assisting the institution with complete budget support.
It is worth mentioning that 75 Assistant Lecturers who applied to be recruited into the Public Service have been posted to boost the strength of the teaching staff of UB.
In total, more than 2,958 graduands graduated in 2011. The distribution showed 101 graduating with Masters Degree from the various Faculties and Colleges, 17 graduated with PhD from the different faculties and 2840 graduated from various under-graduate degree programmes.
Mr Andre Eric Yeme Ntcha from the Department of Chemistry was the best University student with a Grade Point Average of 3.82 on a scale of 4.
The event was witnessed by the Secretary General to the Southwest Governor's Office Mr Handeson Ketong,alongside other top ranking officials in the region.
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