Prof. Therese Nkuo Akenji, Vice Chancellor of the University of Bamenda, explains the functioning of the new development fund.

What prompted the creation and launch of the University of Bamenda Development Fund (UBaDEF)?

Perhaps, I should begin by saying that the launch of the pioneer Development Fund of the University of Bamenda on July 2, 2016, was impressive. Considering that we are new in university management, I did not know what to expect. But the aftermath of the event tells us that the public wants the University to be developed.

It is encouraging to know that the public believes that a lot more can be done with private funds than State subventions alone, which often come with invoices that take away a lot of money. It is now evident that the public cares about the wellbeing of the University of Bamenda. I consider the successful launch of the Development Fund as a vote of confidence by the public in us and the recognition that the State cannot do it alone.

The University of Bamenda was created by Presidential Decree No. 2010/371 of December 14, 2010. It has 11 schools and in just four years, 10 of the 11 schools are operational. The estimated space available is 669 hectares and enrollment has grown from 5,600 students in 2011 to 16,000 in 2016, representing a rate of 25 per cent a year. Unfortunately, the architectural and infrastructural development do not match student enrollment.

Although government is on our side with new infrastructure, more lecture halls are needed for effective learning. With the economic malaise of recent years, it is foolhardy to expect that only the State will provide new investments for “The University of the Future.” That is why we set up the University of Bamenda Development Fund, UBaDEF, to mobilise funds to ensure quality education for our children.

What next after the launch?

The needs of the University of Bamenda are enormous. The launch was only the beginning. Members of the Development Fund will reach out to those who were not in Bambili on July 2, 2016 to contribute to the development of the University. But almost immediately, the UBaDEF Management Board will meet to identify projects for work to start. The procedure is that the University presents projects to the Management of the Development Fund, which appreciates and determines the way forward.

The Board of 13 members comprises men and women of integrity recruited from across the country with a mission to ensure that funds are mobilised and used only for projects. They are around to assist the public in the development of the University. I would like to thank all who generously kick-started the fund raising event - His Excellency the Prime Minister, Head of Government, Philemon Yang, the Minister of Higher Education, Prof. Jacques Fame Ndongo, chief and co-launchers, elite, friends of the University, traditional leaders, etc.