The National Association of Private Higher Education Institutions (NAPHEI – ANIPES in french) elective general assembly that took place on Monday 30th March 2026, in Nkolandom – Centre region of Cameroon, convened key stakeholders, promoters, and administrators of private higher education institutions from across the country, took place under the watchful eyes of Prof. Gabsa Wilfred, Secretary General at the Ministry of Higher Education. Conducted in an atmosphere of professionalism and shared purpose, the process reflected a strong vote of confidence in Dr. Biaka’s leadership, her vision for the sector, and her long-standing commitment to academic excellence and institutional development.
In a historic first, Dr. Biaka becomes the first woman to lead NAPHEI, breaking barriers and setting a new precedent for female leadership within Cameroon’s higher education landscape. Her election not only signals progress within the association but also serves as an inspiration to women across the country, particularly those aspiring to leadership roles in academia and institutional management.
Dr. Biaka is not new to the inner workings of NAPHEI. Having previously served as Vice President of the association, she brings with her valuable experience, institutional memory, and a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing private higher education in Cameroon. This continuity is expected to play a crucial role as she steps into the presidency at a time when the sector is evolving rapidly and requires strategic direction.
As CEO of the Biaka Group and Vice Chancellor of the Biaka University Institute of Buea, Dr. Biaka has built a reputation for excellence, innovation, and results-driven leadership. Under her stewardship, the institution has expanded its academic scope, strengthened its practical training approach, and maintained a strong focus on producing graduates who are both competent and industry-ready. Her leadership within the Biaka Group has also demonstrated the importance of integrating education with real-world application, particularly in critical sectors such as healthcare.
Her election comes at a pivotal time when private higher education institutions are seeking greater collaboration, improved quality assurance systems, and stronger representation within national education policies. Stakeholders across the board are optimistic that her leadership will help reposition NAPHEI as a more influential and unified body capable of addressing these needs effectively. Dr. Biaka’s three-year mandate as President is already generating positive expectations. Many anticipate that her tenure will prioritize strengthening partnerships among member institutions, fostering a culture of academic excellence, and promoting innovation in teaching and learning. There is also hope that she will champion capacity building initiatives, enhance regulatory compliance, and create platforms for knowledge sharing among institutions.
Furthermore, her inclusive and forward-thinking leadership style is expected to encourage dialogue, unity, and collective growth within the association. Observers believe she will play a key role in amplifying the voice of private higher education institutions, ensuring they are well represented in national discourse and policy formulation.
The Biaka community has received the news with immense pride and celebration, recognizing this achievement as both a personal milestone for Dr. Biaka and a reflection of the institution’s growing impact on the national stage. Staff, students, and partners alike see her election as a testament to the values of excellence, resilience, and visionary leadership that define the Biaka Group.
As she assumes office, Dr. Francisca Hongla Biaka is widely expected to bring her characteristic dedication, strategic insight, and passion for education to bear, steering NAPHEI toward a future defined by progress, collaboration, and sustained excellence.