The Biaka University Institute of Buea (BUIB) on Friday, December 5th, 2025, hosted its much-anticipated matriculation ceremony, officially ushering the newest cohort of students into the university community. The atmosphere on campus was vibrant and full of excitement as freshmen, guest speakers, clergy, and BUIB staff arrived, each contributing to the sense of pride and promise that defined the day.
The program began with the arrival of dignitaries and the settling of freshmen, many of whom were visibly eager as they prepared to take the first formal step in their academic journey. The ceremony opened with an ecumenical service led by members of the clergy from various Christian denominations. Through prayers and blessings, they committed the students and the academic year into God’s hands, reminding all present that education is both an intellectual and spiritual pursuit. This solemn beginning emphasized values such as discipline, humility, and perseverance, virtues essential for academic success.
Following the spiritual segment, everyone rose for the singing of the National Anthem and the BUIB Anthem. The BUIB Choir, known for its musical excellence, delivered both anthems with grace and harmony, filling the hall with an atmosphere of unity and institutional pride. Their performance resonated deeply with the audience, setting the tone for a dignified and memorable ceremony.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Dr. Francisca Biaka, was the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academics and Research, Prof. Epah Fonkeng George. In his welcome address, he congratulated the freshmen for securing admission into one of the nation’s leading institutions and reminded them that the commitment they had undertaken would shape their future. Prof. Fonkeng emphasized that education remains the most powerful tool for transforming society and encouraged the students to pursue excellence with determination, curiosity, and integrity. He reassured them that BUIB is committed to providing a nurturing environment that fosters leadership, competence, and moral responsibility.
His inspiring remarks paved the way for the keynote discourse delivered by the guest speaker, Mr. Davidson Mukete, who spoke on the theme “Human Intelligence in the Age of AI: Shaping Learners for a Changing World.” In a dynamic and engaging presentation, Mr. Mukete traced the evolution of human innovation from historical eras to the present age dominated by artificial intelligence. He illustrated how AI is redefining global industries from healthcare and business to governance and security while highlighting the enduring relevance of uniquely human qualities such as creativity, emotional intelligence, ethics, and critical thinking. He encouraged the freshmen to embrace AI as a tool that expands human potential rather than diminishes it. His message served as a timely reminder that the future belongs to learners who adapt, innovate, and remain open-minded.
One of the most symbolic moments of the ceremony followed shortly after, as the Registrar, Dr. Veronica Visemih, stepped forward to administer the induction oath. With their right hands raised, the freshmen pledged to uphold the values and academic integrity of the institution. The oath signified their official entry into the BUIB family, marking the beginning of a journey defined by learning, discipline, and personal growth.
The ceremony continued with an uplifting induction speech delivered by Bih Mercy, a Level One Direct BSc Nursing student. Speaking on behalf of her peers, she expressed heartfelt gratitude to the administration, faculty, and families who had supported their dreams. She emphasized the determination of the new students to work hard, maintain discipline, and represent BUIB with pride. Her words captured the energy, ambition, and optimism of the incoming class.
The 2025 matriculation ceremony stood as a remarkable celebration of beginnings, purpose, and hope. It not only welcomed the freshmen into the university but also set the stage for their transformation into knowledgeable, responsible, and future-ready graduates. The day ended with renewed enthusiasm as the new students prepared to embrace the opportunities and challenges ahead.