By Ikome Christie-Noella Eposi in Buea
The University of Buea (UB) commemorated the 2025 Commonwealth Day with a vibrant celebration that underscored the theme, “Together We Thrive.” The event, organised by UB’s Commonwealth Club last March 12, 2025 featured a series of discussions and activities aimed at highlighting the institution’s longstanding relationship with the Commonwealth and its associated benefits.
Held at the ASTI Conference Room, the ceremony was presided over by Professor Kingsley Ngange, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research and Cooperation with the Business World, who represented the Vice-Chancellor. In his address, Prof. Ngange emphasised the university’s fruitful collaboration with the Commonwealth over the past three decades, particularly in the realms of academic exchange, research, and intellectual development.
UB’s 30-year bond with the Commonwealth
Professor Ngange noted that UB’s relationship with the Commonwealth has yielded significant advantages for students and staff. He cited the case of a Kenyan student who pursued a Master’s degree in Science in Women and Gender Studies at UB through Commonwealth sponsorship, illustrating how the organisation has facilitated cross-border education. “The achievements and benefits have been enormous. The exchanges of staff and students, the collaborative research, and the intellectual growth brought by the Commonwealth have been indispensable,” Prof. Ngange stated.
at the 2025 Commonwealth Day
He also recalled that the university’s first-ever Honorary Doctorate Degree was awarded to Honorable Don McKinnon, the former Commonwealth Secretary-General, further cementing the strong ties between UB and the Commonwealth.
Highlighting the importance of academic cooperation, Prof. Ngange stressed that the Commonwealth is more than just a financial or economic alliance. He said it is a platform for knowledge sharing and intellectual exchange. “It’s about improving universal education systems. Experts from Commonwealth universities have worked closely with UB to enhance our academic programmes, just as our faculty members have benefited from research opportunities abroad,” he remarked.
Debating the future: Technology, peace, and climate change
A major highlight of the event was a thought-provoking debate organised by UB’s Commonwealth students. The discussion centered around the topic: “Peace, Technical Entrepreneurship, and Climate Change.” Participants examined how industrialisation and technological advancements have affected the environment, particularly in Africa, where climate change has impacted agriculture and food security. This intellectual exchange underscored the need for innovation and sustainable development to ensure that progress does not come at the expense of the environment.
Roundtable discussion on “Together We Thrive”
A roundtable discussion, moderated by Professor Roland Ndip, further deepened the conversation on the significance of the Commonwealth. The panel explored key issues such as the role of the media, the historical evolution of the Commonwealth, and its continued importance in today’s global landscape.
Empowering youth through debate and oratory
Beyond the immediate celebrations, UB’s Commonwealth Club has been actively working to enhance the debating and public speaking skills of young Cameroonians. The club’s president, Boning Ngueko Nervis, announced plans to expand their activities through strategic partnerships. “At the regional level, we collaborated with Baseline, Orator Network, and the Commonwealth Student Network in Yaoundé to organise the Cameroon School Debate Championship. Our goal is to nurture the ability of young people to articulate their ideas persuasively and engage in meaningful debates,” he stated.
A call for collaboration and sustainable development
As the celebrations concluded, a resounding message emerged: the Commonwealth remains a vital network for fostering peace, collaboration, and sustainable development. The discussions highlighted that while challenges exist, there are also abundant opportunities for young people across Cameroon and the broader Commonwealth to work together toward common goals. The University of Buea’s 2025 Commonwealth Day celebration was a testament to the power of partnerships, academic exchange, and the role of young people in shaping a brighter future. With continued engagement and collaboration, UB and the Commonwealth community aim to build on their shared values and drive sustainable progress.