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Buea, the historic capital of the South West Region, was awash with patriotic fervor on May 20th as thousands thronged the ceremonial grounds to celebrate Cameroon’s 53rd National Day under the theme “Army and Nation: Together for a United, Peaceful, and Prosperous Cameroon.” The event that was celebrated all over the nation, was hosted at the traditional Independent Square in Buea, marked by elegance and grandeur, brought together members of the administrative, diplomatic, military, academic, traditional and civil society communities, alongside jubilant students and enthusiastic locals.

The day began with official administrative protocol then the solemn but prestigious awarding of national medals, a moment of great pride and reflection. Presiding over the ceremony was His Excellency Bernard Okalia Bilai, Governor of the South West Region and personal representative of the Head of State, President Paul Biya. The highest distinction of the day was reserved for one of Buea’s most respected figures, Dr. Mrs. Francisca Hongla Biaka, the matriarch of the Biaka Group and Vice Chancellor of the Biaka University Institute of Buea (BUIB). In a deeply moving moment, she was elevated to the dignity of Grand Officer of the Order of Valour, one of the highest civilian honors in the nation, in recognition of her unmatched contributions to health care, education, and humanitarian development in Cameroon.

Flanked by family, dignitaries, and the Biaka community, Dr. Mrs. Biaka received the medal with humility and grace, symbolizing decades of service to nation-building through her initiatives in tertiary health education and quality patient care. The audience flared up in applause, paying homage to a woman whose vision has transformed lives and institutions across the region and beyond. Other deserving Cameroonians across various sectors were also decorated for their exceptional service to the nation. These included civil servants, military personnel, and leaders in education and business, all united by their unwavering commitment to the ideals of unity, peace, and development. The medal ceremony underscored the government’s resolve to recognize and reward merit, loyalty, and dedication to public service.

   

With the atmosphere already electrified by the emotional recognition of national heroes, attention soon turned to the traditional National Day parade, which kicked off in high style. The military parade took the lead, with elements from the army, gendarmerie, police, fire brigade, and other defense corps marching in precise formation. The sharpness of their uniforms, the synchronized steps, and the imposing display of discipline and strength drew admiration from the gathered crowd.

     

Following the military came the civilian march past, led by primary schools, whose vibrant colors, choreographed displays, and patriotic chants melted hearts. Holding miniature flags and wearing outfits of national significance, the children reminded everyone of the promise and hope of a united future. Secondary schools on the other hand took the baton, showcasing their school pride and national spirit through unified formations and chants in French and English. The spirited performances highlighted the richness of Cameroon’s bilingual heritage and the role of youth in safeguarding national identity.

       

A climax of the civilian march was the university parade, where Biaka University Institute of Buea (BUIB) once again stole the show. The institution, known for its professionalism and discipline, fielded contingents from all five of its constituent schools; The School of Health Sciences, School of Education, School of Management Sciences, School of Engineering and Technology, and School of Agricultural Sciences. Dressed in their various departmental professional attires and led by faculty staff and administrative heads, BUIB’s march was organized, symbolic, and commanding.

The crowd cheered as BUIB’s students moved with pride, exemplifying the values of academic excellence, innovation, and leadership that the institution upholds. Their performance was further amplified by banners and boards showcasing the school’s motto and its contribution to building a skilled and ethical workforce for Cameroon and beyond. Other universities and higher institutions also participated, BUT BUIB’s organized presence and high turnout stood out, leaving a lasting impression on both officials and spectators. Their show of strength and unity mirrored the broader theme of the National Day celebrations, one of collective progress, peace, and patriotism.

       

As the event wound down, Dr. Francisca took time to greet some of the participating groups and received honorary handshakes. In interviews conducted by local media, Dr. Mrs. Francisca Hongla Biaka expressed deep gratitude to the Head of State for the national recognition, describing it as a profound honor not only for herself but for the entire Biaka community. She dedicated the award to the hardworking staff, students, and partners of Biaka University Institute of Buea and Biaka Hospital, acknowledging their collective effort in advancing health care and higher education in Cameroon. “This recognition is a call to do even more,” she said, emphasizing her continued commitment to building a future where quality service, compassion, and excellence remain at the heart of nation-building. With humility and resolve, she reaffirmed her dedication to empowering the next generation of professionals to serve with integrity and purpose.

The 2025 National Day celebration in Buea was more than a spectacle, it was a vivid reminder of the strength of national identity, the importance of recognizing selfless service, and the role of education and youth in shaping Cameroon’s future. For BUIB and the wider Biaka community, the day will be etched in memory not just for their spectacular participation, but for the crowning of a legacy, the national acknowledgment of Dr. Mrs. Francisca Biaka as a Grand Officer of the Order of Valour.

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.

Apt with topnotch facilities for the training of go getters and professionals in five different Schools, Biaka University Institute of Buea (BUIB) has opened its doors to applicants for the 2023/2024 academic year. This declaration was made known on Thursday the 29^th of June 2023 by the Vice Chancellor of BUIB Dr. Mrs. Francisca Hongla Biaka during the admission board meeting which took place in the conference room of the Institution.

During the meeting which saw the launching of the admission season, board members pledged their continuous efforts to ensure that what is offered to prospective and current students is nothing short of the best of professional training.

The Vice Chancellor while applauding the commitment of these members to the institution, invited all to stay watchful and ethical as the campaigns and admissions unfold.

In Recognition of the digital age and to facilitate the admission process, BUIB has put in place a robust online application system where applications can be done from the comfort zones of all applicants.

Nevertheless, the University has set up an onsite admission booth to make available all necessary information to applicants as the need be as well as assist them with the online application on campus.

This year’s admission season is open to applicants interested in any of the Schools in BUIB including the School of Agricultural Sciences, Engineering and Technology, Education, Management Sciences and Health Sciences. Certificates offered include HND, BSc, Top-up BSc, Top-Up B.Ed, MSc, Top-Up MSc, and MBA.  The BUIB Online application can be done at www.biakahc.org/apply

 

The choice to study at this beautiful citadel of learning, is the choice for the best!

Students and staff members of Biaka University Institute of Buea (BUIB) have been challenged to sanctify themselves, sanctify their works/studies and sanctify others through their works as it is a true means to achieve holiness and union with God. This call was made this Tuesday the 20^th of June 2023 by Professor Athanasius F. Amungwa, during a one day public conference held at BUIB.

Organized under the theme “Work and the Universal Call to Holiness”, participants where reminded that their work should be that which can be offered to God. This entails honesty in performing work be it as a student or staff.

Drawing from the book of Genesis: 2 Vs. 15, Prof. Amungwa reminded all that work is a natural obligation planned in the beginning by God to offer the world a bigger opportunity to feel fulfillment in Christ. Thus it should be carried out with joy and honesty so that holiness can be attained.

According to the Catechesis of the Catholic Church, Holiness is the plenitude of Christian life, the fullness of charity and of our condition as God’s children. It is nothing but the work of God’s grace in us and our correspondence to it to identify ourselves with His Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ, living in, with, and for Him. Therefore for work to be good it must be holy.

These participants were challenged to seek the three basic stages of holiness which include the Purgative, Illuminative, and Unitive Ways. Each stage represents advancement toward sanctity and total union with God.

Staff and students were also reminded to live according to God’s purpose to avoid wasting the precious time God has given them on earth.  Above all, members were prompted to pray prayers of praise and thanksgiving at every stage of their work/study lives.