The maiden visit of the U.S. Embassy delegation to Biaka University Institute of Buea (BUIB) on October 31, 2024, marked a significant step in strengthening educational partnerships between Cameroon and the United States. The delegation, led by Deputy Public Affairs Officer, Amanda Cauldwell and other key Embassy officials, was warmly welcomed by the university’s leadership and staff. This visit aimed to foster collaboration, provide access to valuable educational resources, and discuss potential future initiatives to enrich learning opportunities at BUIB.
Upon arrival, the U.S. Embassy delegation received a warm reception from BUIB’s Vice Chancellor, Dr. Francisca Hongla Biaka, and other university dignitaries. After introductory greetings, the delegation was led on a comprehensive tour of the campus facilities, highlighting the university’s commitment to practical, high-quality education. The delegation visited key areas, including the BUIB Simulation center, science laboratories, IT lab, library, Biaka Hospital, and lecture halls. These spaces showcased BUIB’s modern infrastructure and its focus on equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary for successful careers in various fields.
Following the campus tour, the U.S. Embassy and BUIB teams convened at the Biaka Hospital conference room for a formal information session. Dr. Francisca Hongla Biaka opened the session by welcoming the U.S. delegation and introducing university leaders. In her address, she emphasized the longstanding relationship between BUIB and the U.S. Government through initiatives supported by the Embassy in Yaoundé. This partnership, especially with the Fulbright academic programme which BUIB hosted in 2023, she noted, has consistently strengthened BUIB’s academic offerings, creating a working bridge between Cameroonian and American educational standards.
Deputy Public Affairs Officer Amanda Cauldwell followed with warm remarks, underscoring the Embassy’s dedication to supporting educational exchange and collaboration between Cameroon and the United States. She spoke about the value of academic partnerships and knowledge-sharing initiatives, particularly in today’s interconnected world. Ms. Cauldwell expressed hope that the relationship between the U.S. Embassy and BUIB would continue to flourish, opening doors for students and faculty to expand their academic horizons through access to innovative U.S.-backed resources.
One of the most anticipated moments of the session was the presentation on eLibraryUSA, a rich digital resource provided by the U.S. Government. American Spaces Specialist, Ms. Mabel Foncham-Chingang, led the presentation, giving an insightful demonstration of the platform’s extensive offerings. She walked the attendees through eLibraryUSA’s vast collection, which includes academic journals, multimedia resources, and e-books. Ms. Foncham-Chingang highlighted how these resources would benefit both students and faculty by providing access to scholarly material, enhancing research capabilities, and supporting various fields of study.
The Vice Chancellor and university representatives expressed deep appreciation for the Embassy’s outreach efforts and acknowledged the transformative potential of resources like eLibraryUSA for BUIB’s academic community. With its wealth of information, the platform aligns well with BUIB’s educational mission, offering new learning avenues and encouraging a culture of academic excellence.
This maiden visit from the U.S. Embassy set a solid foundation for future collaborative efforts aimed at enhancing educational standards at BUIB. As both teams discussed potential next steps, there was a shared vision of building a thriving academic partnership that would provide Cameroonian students with the tools and opportunities needed to excel on a global stage.
As a gesture of goodwill and commitment to this shared vision, the U.S. Embassy presented the university with a generous gift of desktop computers. This contribution not only symbolizes the Embassy’s support for educational advancement but also equips BUIB with resources to foster digital literacy and innovation among its students.
The practical lessons were conducted by Mr. Nsiela Hilary Nkoh and Mr. Agbor David, the Chauffeur of Biaka University, who have extensive experience in operating and maintaining motors. They began with basic driving instructions, ensuring that all students grasped the fundamental principles of operating a tractor safely and effectively. They emphasized that Safety is top priority and that the students should respect the machine, follow the guidelines, and they will gain the skills needed to revolutionize your farming practices.”
After the comprehensive briefing, students were then divided into groups of five, fostering a collaborative learning environment. Each group took turns practicing how to drive the tractor, under the watchful eye of Mr. David. He alongside Mr. Hilary provided detailed explanations on the various controls and mechanisms of the tractor, ensuring that each student gained hands-on experience.
Throughout the practical sessions, students were not only taught how to drive the tractor but also how to use it for different agricultural tasks. This included plowing, harrowing, and transporting goods, among other essential farming operations. The hands-on experience was invaluable, transforming theoretical lessons into practical skills. The students were not just learning to drive; they were understanding the integral role of machinery in efficient and sustainable farming.
The program, which began yesterday, wrapped up today with students expressing satisfaction and confidence in their newly acquired skills. The practical lessons have equipped them with essential knowledge that will significantly benefit their future careers in agriculture. The Director of the School of Agricultural Sciences; Mr. Tanyi, Mr. Nsiela Hilary and the Chauffeur; Mr. Agbor David were commended for their dedication and effective teaching methods, which ensured that the students received comprehensive training in tractor operation. The School of Agriculture at Biaka University continues to prioritize practical learning, preparing its students for the demands of modern farming.
