The Biaka University Institute of Buea (BUIB) today November 9th, 2024 hosted a memorable convocation ceremony, celebrating the accomplishments of its graduating class in a grand event marked by dignity, inspiration, and a call to service. The ceremony highlighted the university’s dedication to academic excellence, community outreach, and the holistic development of its students.
The event began with an academic procession, showcasing the graduating students and staff in their full academic regalia. The procession set the ceremonial tone, embodying the pride and achievement of the BUIB community. This was followed by ecumenical prayers, invoking divine blessings on the graduates and all participants. The university choir then led the gathering in heartfelt renditions of the Cameroon National Anthem and the Biaka Group Anthem, uniting attendees in a spirit of shared purpose and celebration.
In her opening address, the Vice-Chancellor of BUIB extended a warm welcome to all guests and congratulated the graduates on their academic accomplishments. She lauded their resilience and dedication, reminding them that they were leaving as ambassadors of BUIB, prepared to make meaningful contributions to society.
The Vice-Chancellor further emphasized the transformative power of education, urging the graduates to carry forward the values of excellence, integrity, and service instilled during their time at BUIB. She encouraged them to be innovative and proactive in addressing societal challenges, reminding them that their achievements were not just personal milestones but also stepping stones toward making a lasting impact in their communities and beyond. “As you leave these walls,” she remarked, “remember that you are equipped not only with knowledge but also with the responsibility to lead and inspire positive change.”
The keynote address was delivered by the guest speaker, Professor Molindo, who spoke passionately on the timely theme “Education in the Service of Humanity and Community Outreach.” Professor Molindo highlighted the critical role education plays in shaping individuals who can address societal challenges with compassion and innovation. He urged the graduates to view their knowledge as a tool for uplifting others, emphasizing that true education transcends personal achievement and contributes to the greater good. Drawing from real-life examples and his own experiences, he encouraged them to actively engage in community development initiatives, foster inclusivity, and champion sustainable practices that benefit both local and global communities. “Education,” he remarked, “is most powerful when it is used to serve and transform lives.” He added that, “Education is not merely a privilege; it is a responsibility to uplift and serve humanity.” His thought-provoking speech was met with resounding applause.
Following this, the Registrar presented the graduating class to the assembly, officially marking their transition from students to alumni. The moment was both solemn and celebratory, symbolizing the culmination of years of hard work and dedication.
A valedictory address, delivered by a representative of the graduating class, encapsulated the collective experiences, challenges, and triumphs of their academic journey. It was an emotional moment as the graduate expressed gratitude to the faculty, family, and peers who had played a vital role in their success.
Special messages from the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Buea, Professor Ngomo Horace, and the Secretary General of the Ministry of Higher Education, Professor Gapsa Wilfred, the parliamentarian for Buea Urban, Hon. Esembe Malomba who came alongside the winners of the just ended “NA WE WE” football tournament to show appreciation to Dr. Francisca Biaka for her unending support to community development, added further prestige to the occasion. All three speakers commended BUIB for its academic rigor and emphasized the importance of its graduates in advancing national and global development.
The ceremony proceeded with the awarding of prizes to outstanding students, recognizing academic excellence, leadership, and community service. The awardees received loud cheers from family, friends, and well-wishers serving as a source of inspiration for future cohorts.
The event concluded with a recessional march of the staff, symbolizing the closure of the ceremony and the beginning of a new chapter for the graduates.
As the graduates move forward into the next phase of their lives, they carry with them the values instilled by BUIB: excellence, integrity, and service. Today’s convocation was not just a celebration of achievement but also a reminder of the transformative power of education in shaping a brighter future for humanity.