Jean Patient Tsala and Abel Bela Samari, Manager and Deputy Manager of Communications and Public Relations at RENAPROV Finance SA, have stated that at Bissaï University Institute, the approach of the institute incorporates the principles of the solidarity economy, stressing collaboration and mutual support. Speaking to News-Lens during the Open Door Day held on September 3, the officials highlighted that the institute’s mission goes beyond merely training Cameroonians to be job seekers. Instead, it aims to empower them to become job creators, fostering a dynamic spirit of entrepreneurship that can drive economic growth and innovation in the country. Read the following excerpts.
Excepts
News-lens: What inspired Bissaï University Institute to host an Open Door Day today?
Samari Abel: Today’s Open Door Day is a significant milestone for us. After three years, we felt it was the perfect opportunity to evaluate our progress and engage directly with parents and the wider community. We want to share the philosophy behind the creation of Bissaï University Institute, which uniquely specially incorporates both the professional training and the university LMD programme. Many parents are often confused about what makes our institution special. This is an opportunity and we are discussing with the parents to let them know what we offer. We aim to train Cameroonians not just to be job seekers, but to become job creators, and fostering a spirit of entrepreneurship.
Can you elaborate on the concept of job creation and the solidarity economy that you mentioned?
Jean Patient Tsala: Absolutely! At Bissaï University Institute, we are deeply committed to empowering our students to become successful entrepreneurs. We understand that while many individuals aspire to start their own businesses, they often lack a foundational philosophy that can drive sustainable growth and long-term success. Our approach integrates the principles of the solidarity economy, which stressing collaboration, mutual support, and community engagement.
This Open Door Day presents a valuable opportunity for us to share this vision with parents and prospective students. We want to convey that education at Bissaï University Institute is not only transformative but also accessible, particularly for those who may face financial constraints. We firmly believe that education is a powerful tool for alleviating poverty and fostering economic independence. By encouraging entrepreneurship, we aim to equip our students with the skills and mindset necessary to create their own opportunities, contribute to their communities, and ultimately pave the way for a brighter future for themselves and others.
How does Bissaï University Institute ensure that its graduates are well-prepared for the job market?
Jean Patient Tsala: Great question! Our curriculum at Bissaï University Institute is designed with a strong emphasis on hands-on learning, featuring an impressive 80 percent practical training and only 20 percent theory. This practical experience is conducted within our own enterprises, such as RENAPROV Finance SA for banking and accounting, Royal FM for journalism, and MAMU Hospital Complex for health-related fields.
By the time our students graduate, they are not merely job seekers; they are equipped with the skills and confidence to create jobs and contribute actively to the economy. We prioritize nurturing talent and fostering an environment where all students can thrive, regardless of their starting point. This approach ensures that every student not only gains valuable industry experience but also develops the entrepreneurial mindset needed to succeed in today’s dynamic job market. Our goal is to empower them to become leaders in their fields, driving innovation and positive change in their communities.
What message do you have for parents considering Bissaï University Institute for their children?
Samari Abel: Our message is clear: Bissaï University Institute is dedicated to recruiting the best students, but we also believe in inclusivity and opportunity for all. We strive to create a supportive environment that transforms every student into a valuable contributor to society, regardless of their background or academic history.
Our Open Door Day serves as an invitation to parents to discover how we can assist their children in not just securing employment, but also becoming active agents of development within our community. We envision a collaborative effort where students are empowered to take charge of their futures, fostering innovation and positive change.
Together, we can build a brighter future for Cameroon through the combined forces of education and entrepreneurship. By investing in our young people, we are investing in the nation’s progress and prosperity, ensuring that they have the skills and mindset needed to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape.
Interviewed by Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo
