Buea University:

Over 20.000 participate at 15th Students’ Forum

By Ajongakou Santos in Buea

 

Cross-Section of participants

The 15th edition of the Students’ Forum, hosted on the Campus of the University of Buea has ended with the over 20.000 participants, notably students, challenged to shun all societal vices while for a better and brighter education future.

                Chaired by the Minister of Higher Education, Jacques Fame Ndongo, the 2015 edition of the Students’ Forum, for the first time since its inception took place out of the nation’s political, Yaounde. The three day event from Tuesday, October 20, through Thursday October 22, 2015 was organised under the theme: “The contribution of Guidant counsellors in peace building and national unity”. It brought together secondary school, high school and university students, Higher Education officials, university dons and entrepreneurs.

                According to Mrs. Theresia Wanah Litumbe, Director of Students Assistance and Welfare at the Ministry of Higher Education, the Students’ Forum organised by the Ministry of Higher Education aimed at enabling students meet with stakeholders of the education sector. This according to her includes students, parents, heads of educational institutions and enterprises.

                Cultural dace displays, workshops, debates, quizzes and exhibitions were in the list of activities that spiced the forum. With the aim of marketing their products and services, state and private institutions of learning notably the universities of Buea, Yaounde I, II, Douala, Dschang, Bamenda, Buea amongst others had over 50 stands.

                Speaking at the opening ceremony last Tuesday October 20 2015, Minister Jacque Fame Ndongo urged counsellors to play the deserved role in all institutions of learning were they are most needed. Meanwhile, the students were challenged to seek counselling from the counsellors in their various institutions.

                This situation was similar at the closing ceremony where South West Governor Bernard OkaliaBilai while representing the Minister of Higher Education said success is the fallout of hardwork; challenging the students to marry theory and practice, be it in academics or hardwork. Also present were, UB’s Vice-Chancellor, the Minister of Youth and Civic Education- MomounaFotso, the Mayor of the Buea Council- Patrick EkemaEsunge and a host of others.

                Many have applauded the efforts of the University of Buea for organising such a big event; yet, some doubt if at all authorities had in mind the lapses that could come with the event. It is alleged, some authorities stole huge sums for private use, leaving many students frustrated.