The Biaka University Institute of Buea (BUIB) demonstrated once again that education is not only about lectures and exams but also about wellness, bonding, and the spirit of togetherness. More than 1,200 students drawn from all 5 schools of BUIB, accompanied by enthusiastic staff members, embarked on a much-anticipated chill trip to the scenic coastal town of Limbe, the town of friendship. The day was packed with activities that blended competition, relaxation, and fun, starting with a heated football match and ending with sun-soaked leisure at the famous Seme Beach.
The day began early, with buses ferrying excited students and staff from the Molyko Omnisport Stadium to Limbe. Clad in colorful BUIB sportswear and T-shirts, the Biaka convoy made a vibrant procession through the roads leading to the coastal town. The atmosphere was electric with excitement as participants looked forward to both the friendly match and the chance to unwind by the ocean.
Upon arrival, the group was warmly received at the international stage, the Limbe Omnisport Stadium in Ngeme, where the much-anticipated football showdown between BUIB staff and students was scheduled to take place. As fans from both sides filled the sidelines, waving, clapping, and blowing vuvuzelas, a short opening ceremony was held to officially kick off the day’s events.
The ceremonial kickoff was performed by Mr. Lawrence Francis Tonye Biaka, Director of Administration and Finance of BUIB, was accompanied by the Human Resource Manager, Madam Catherine Ndeley, and other top-level administrators. Mr. Lawrence Biaka, dressed in a Biaka jersey exchanged pleasantries with the players encouraging everyone to play their best and represent their teams well while he rooted for fair-play as he hoped to see the day as a celebration of unity, wellness, and Biaka pride.
With that, Mr. Biaka with a smooth swing of his right leg, struck the ball firmly, sending it rolling with precision across the midfield line. The crowd broke out in applause, whistles, and cheers, marking not just the start of a game, but the beginning of a day filled with unity, laughter, and lasting memories.
The football match quickly turned intense as both teams displayed great skill and determination. The staff team, composed of seasoned employees from various departments, surprised the crowd by taking early control of the game. In the 22nd minute, Mr. Calistus from the Biaka Teaching Hospital sent the crowd into a frenzy when he struck a powerful goal from inside the box, giving the staff a 1-0 lead.
Despite trailing, the student team did not lose hope. They reorganized during the break and came back into the second half with renewed energy and strategic play. In the 58th minute, their efforts bore fruit when a final-year nursing student, capitalized on a defensive slip to win a spot kick that was converted into a beautiful equalizer. The students’ side went wild with excitement as they stormed the field in celebration, their chants growing even louder.
The remainder of the match saw both teams push hard for a winner, but despite near misses on both ends, the game ended in a 1-1 draw, a fitting conclusion that symbolized balance, shared spoils and victory. Players from both teams shook hands and posed for group photos, reflecting the spirit of unity and mutual respect that defined the day.
But the fun was far from over.
After the match, the entire delegation made their way to the iconic Seme Beach, known for its volcanic black sand, tranquil waters, and breathtaking views. The mood shifted from competitive to carefree as students and staff alike embraced the leisure side of the trip.
At the beach, the atmosphere was that of a festival. Students dove into the ocean, swimming and splashing joyfully while others engaged in beach games like volleyball, tug-of-war, and sack races. Music played in the background as small groups danced barefoot on the sand, took selfies with friends, and enjoyed the cool breeze.
While students got busier by the beach, some staff members took the opportunity to relax under trees and by pools, enjoying casual conversations with other staff and students in a setting far removed from office desks and lecture halls.
Speaking at the beach, Mr. Ashu William, the Students Affairs Director, emphasized the importance of such outings. “Our work environment is already strong, but days like this build something even more powerful as it brings in trust, laughter, and mutual understanding. Today, we are not staff and students; we are one big Biaka family.” Students also expressed deep appreciation for the experience. “This trip came at the perfect time,”. “It helped us de-stress and reminded us that our school values our well-being.”
As the sun dipped over the horizon, casting warm golden hues across the water, the group gathered briefly for a closing moment of gratitude. There were hugs, shared snacks, and promises to keep the memories alive. By evening, the Biaka convoy was homeward bound, filled with laughter and stories to last a lifetime.
The Limbe trip may have lasted only a day, but its impact on the BUIB community will be long-lasting. With sportsmanship, unity, and fun at the center, the excursion reinforced Biaka University’s commitment to holistic education, one that nurtures not just the mind, but also the heart and spirit.