By Ikome Christie-Noella Eposi in Buea
The University of Buea (UB) has reaffirmed its commitment to academic excellence and innovation through a one-day Academic Planning Workshop (APW) held on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at the Dorothy Limunga Njeuma Amphitheatre. The workshop, which brought together senior officials and academic staff, was organised under the theme, “Digital Transformation of Higher Education.” The event served as both an induction into the new academic year and a platform to discuss strategies for integrating technology into the university’s teaching, learning, and administrative processes.
In his opening remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Buea, Professor Ngomo Horace Manga, underscored the importance of digital transformation as an essential driver of progress in modern education systems. “Digital Transformation should be a key focus for every institution wanting to stay relevant,” Professor Manga stated, emphasising that embracing modern technology was crucial for ensuring the quality and competitiveness of university education. He added that such workshops at the start of every academic year provide an opportunity for staff to reflect on best practices, align with institutional goals, and innovate in their pedagogical approaches.
Professor Ngomo Horace Manga encouraged faculty members to adopt and integrate the necessary technological modifications into their teaching methods to enhance student engagement and overall learning outcomes. According to him, the University of Buea must continue positioning itself as a leading institution by adapting swiftly to the demands of a rapidly evolving digital world.
The workshop featured a series of presentations and discussions that explored various aspects of university governance and instructional innovation. Presenters delved into key topics such as the role of the Academic Affairs Office in fostering digital transformation, the use of e-learning platforms, and the ethical implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in academia particularly in the era of generative AI technologies like ChatGPT.
Discussions during the sessions highlighted the importance of balancing technological advancement with ethical responsibility, especially as universities worldwide grapple with challenges related to academic integrity, data privacy, and the responsible use of digital tools in research and instruction.
Speakers also emphasised that digital transformation is not merely about adopting new technologies but also about transforming mindsets, policies, and institutional culture to fully harness the benefits of digital innovation. This includes developing digital literacy among students and staff, strengthening online learning infrastructure, and ensuring equitable access to digital resources.
Participants at the workshop expressed optimism about the university’s direction, noting that such initiatives strengthen UB’s reputation as a forward-thinking institution. The event also provided a platform for networking and experience sharing among academic staff, fostering collaboration across faculties and departments toward a shared vision of digital excellence.
By the end of the workshop, participants agreed on the need to embed digital practices into all aspects of university life from curriculum design and student assessment to research dissemination and administrative management.
The University of Buea’s renewed focus on digital transformation aligns with global trends in higher education, where institutions are increasingly leveraging technology to expand access, improve learning experiences, and enhance operational efficiency. Through initiatives like the Academic Planning Workshop, UB continues to demonstrate leadership and commitment to quality assurance in teaching and learning, ensuring that its graduates remain competitive in an increasingly digital global workforce.
As the university embarks on the new academic year, the call to action from the Vice Chancellor was clear: digital transformation is not an option but a necessity for sustainable academic excellence.