BSFC 2024: Nso Boys FC, Promise Enterprise FC Secure Second Round Berths

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Nso Boys FC and Promise Enterprise FC have both secured their spots in the second round of the ongoing 12th edition of the Bui Sports Fans Competition (BSFC) in Yaoundé. The two teams qualified on October 13th after their final Group A matches.

***Nso Boys FC*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

In the first match of the day, Takijah FC, despite a 3-0 victory over Nso Boys FC, were unable to advance to the next round. Nso Boys FC benefited from their previous wins. However, the match served as a showcase for Takijah FC’s skills, as they aimed to finish the competition on a high note.

Takijah FC started the match with a with 10 players but dominated the early stages, taking the lead in the eighth minute through a goal from Perez Dimale. Despite Nso Boys FC’s efforts to equalize, Takijah FC maintained their lead, going into halftime with a 1-0 advantage.

**Nso Boys FC and Takijah FC battling for supremacy** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

In the second half, the light rain did not deter either team’s determination. Nso Boys FC continued to press for an equalizer, but Takijah FC’s defense held firm. In the 65th minute, Lawrence Njodzeka doubled Takijah FC’s lead, and Innocent F. sealed the victory with a third goal in the 88th minute.

The second match of the day was a highly anticipated clash between Promise Enterprise FC and NDECA FC. Both teams tied on points needed a win to secure their place in the second round. The match was a tense affair, with both teams creating numerous chances.

***Promise Enterprise FC*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

However, Kelly Fru broke the deadlock for Promise Enterprise FC in the 30th minute, giving his team a slender lead at halftime. NDECA FC fought back in the second half, equalizing through Nicodemus Makeje in the 69th minute.

Nevertheless, Promise Enterprise FC regained the lead just fifteen minutes later through a penalty from Macgregor Veraloh. Veraloh again completed his brace with another goal in the 88th minute, putting Promise Enterprise FC firmly in control. NDECA FC managed to score a consolation goal in extra time, but it was not enough to prevent their elimination as Promise FC sealed the day with Fonyuy Platini.

***Promise FC and NDECA FC during their last Group match*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Nso Boys FC and Promise Enterprise FC (Group A) have therefore qualified for the second round of the BSFC. Their impressive performances have set them up for exciting challenges in the next stage of the competition.

Environmental Leaders Chart Data-Driven Path for Sustainable Biodiversity Management

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Environmental leaders from across Africa have outlined strategies to promote the sustainable management of the continent’s biodiversity and ecosystems through data-driven approaches. This was the outcome of a three-day event held from October 8 to 11 in Dakar, Senegal.

***Participants at the first Annual Meeting of the Regional Centres of Excellence for Biodiversity and forests in Africa.*** *(Photo by Gilberte Koffi/CIFOR-ICRAF.)*

The First Annual Meeting of the Regional Centers of Excellence for Biodiversity and Forests in Africa brought together 50 participants from governments, donors, multilateral organizations, regional bodies, research institutions, and other key environmental stakeholders.

The aim was to develop a transformative roadmap for the sustainable management of Africa’s vast environmental resources and rich biodiversity, including forests, water bodies, and wildlife.

Stakeholders stressed the need to ensure that Africa’s forests, ecosystems, and biodiversity are sustainably managed. This will enable them to continue providing essential services, such as food, water, fuel, and shelter, that contribute to the well-being of local populations while supporting rapid economic growth and development across the continent.

Speaking during the opening ceremony, Prof. Daouda Ngom, Senegal’s Minister of Environment and Ecological Transition, expressed Senegal’s gratitude for hosting the first Annual Meeting of the Regional Centers of Excellence for Biodiversity and Forests in Africa.

He added, “This is a great initiative that will enable African countries to access quality data and share best practices for the effective management of the continent’s environmental resources, forests, biodiversity, and ecosystems, which are vital for our well-being and economic development.”

Jean-Marc Pisani, Ambassador and Head of the European Union Delegation to Senegal, stated, “This Regional Centers of Excellence initiative seeks to strengthen the Africa-EU partnership on science, technology, and innovation, with a special focus on the science-policy interface.”

He added, “We are committed to enhancing the technical capacity of the centers to deliver data, knowledge, and expertise across thematic areas that include biodiversity, forests, food security, agroecology, water, oceans, as well as climate and disaster resilience.”

Peter Minang, CIFOR-ICRAF Director for Africa, highlighted the numerous threats facing Africa’s rich biodiversity and ecosystems, such as deforestation, land degradation, climate change, human-wildlife conflict, and environmental pollution. He emphasized that the Regional Centers of Excellence are crucial for the continent as they will enable the development of data-driven solutions to address these challenges.

Dr. Cheikh Mbow, Director General of the CSE (Senegal), noted that the Ecological Monitoring Center has the privilege of hosting the Centre of Excellence for Biodiversity and Ecosystems in West Africa. He expressed the center’s eagerness to collaborate with other centers of excellence in Africa to actively contribute to the monitoring and implementation of global biodiversity commitments, particularly through the implementation of National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans.

The Regional Centers of Excellence initiative is funded by the European Union and implemented by the Center for International Forestry Research and World Agroforestry (CIFOR-ICRAF) in collaboration with the Ecological Monitoring Centre (CSE) in West Africa, the Central Africa Forest Observatory (OFAC) in Central Africa, and the Regional Centre for Mapping of Resources for Development (RCMRD) in Eastern and Southern Africa, among other partners.

The Regional Centers of Excellence program supports three units in Africa, based in West Africa, Central Africa, and Eastern and Southern Africa. The centers are hosted by CSE, OFAC, and RCMRD respectively.

At MINPOSTEL Working Visit: CAMTEL Unveils Strategies To Combat Infrastructure Vandalism

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

National incumbent operator, Cameroon Telecommunications, CAMTEL has said, they have taken up strategies aimed at combating the rampant vandalism of its infrastructure.

***CAMTEL GM, Judith Yah Sunday (L) welcoming Minister Minette Libom Li Likeng (R)*** (*Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

The strategies were announced on October 11 in Yaoundé by CAMTEL’s Director General, Judith Yah Sunday épouse Achidi, during a working visit by the Minister of Post and Telecommunications, Minette Libom Li Likeng, and her team.

Speaking during the visit, Judith Yah Sunday emphasized that CAMTEL has faced numerous challenges in recent months, particularly regarding service quality.

Fully aware of Cameroonians’ expectations and its responsibilities, she stated that immediate corrective measures were taken to address these inconveniences. According to her, CAMTEL is committed to finding lasting solutions to strengthen its resilience in the face of these crises.

***CAMTEL GM, Judith Yah Sunday (L) and Minister Minette Libom Li Likeng (R)*** ***during the working visit*** (*Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

“Several external factors have contributed to this situation,” she explained. “Acts of vandalism targeting our infrastructure, especially optical fiber, have increased significantly in recent months.”

She added, “These acts of sabotage directly impact service continuity and disrupt user experience. In response, CAMTEL has intensified its collaboration with relevant authorities to protect its strategic infrastructure and bring the perpetrators to justice.”

In addition to vandalism, she pointed out that power supply challenges, including prolonged power cuts that affect technical equipment stability, and uncoordinated public works, have also caused damage to critical cables and equipment.

Despite these obstacles, the Director General said, CAMTEL has continued to implement initiatives to improve service quality. She stated that, the recent handover of the fiber optic cable deployed by ENEO is a significant step forward in optimizing connectivity nationwide.

***Minister Minette Libom Li Likeng visiting CAMTEL’s infrastructure***s (*Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

“CAMTEL has also signed an agreement with CAMWATER and is exploring opportunities with CAMRAIL to utilize rail corridors for fiber deployment. These initiatives aim to pool and leverage national infrastructures for the benefit of all,” she added.

The CAMTEL boss also stressed that these efforts can only be successful with the collective participation of public authorities and citizens in preserving infrastructure.

“Optical fiber, the backbone of the telecommunications network, must be considered a national asset, requiring collective vigilance,” she said.

Meanwhile, during a press conference after the working visit to CAMTEL, Orange Cameroun and MTN Cameroon, Minister Libom Li Likeng noted that the field mission was prompted by a resurgence of complaints related to service quality, including frequent network interruptions, slow internet connections, and poor voice quality.

***Minister Minette Libom Li Likeng speaking after visiting infrastructures*** (*Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Going by her, the visit aimed to ensure that mobile operators are fulfilling their commitments made in 2023, especially as telecom service quality in Cameroon has deteriorated in recent months.

After listening to the problems and solutions presented, the Minister in the press conference said, there is need for strengthened dialogue and synergy among stakeholders to address the identified issues promptly.

She however, called on the Telecommunications Regulatory Board, ART to strengthen and modernize its system for monitoring and controlling operators’ contractual commitments, ensuring their full compliance with obligations.

She said, this requires the implementation of more rigorous monitoring and evaluation tools, including automated monitoring of network performance and appropriate sanctions are applied in the event of non-compliance.

2025 AFCON Qualifiers: Cameroon Dominates Kenya, Secures Top Spot In Group J

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon have regained their position at the top of Group J in the 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers with a convincing 4-1 victory over Kenya in Yaoundé on October 11.

Both teams entered the match with high stakes, knowing the importance of securing a win. Early on, Cameroon faced a setback when Christopher Wooh was injured following a collision and was replaced by Jean-Charles Castelletto in the 13th minute.

However, Cameroon took the lead through a penalty kick converted by captain Vincent Aboubakar, but Kenya responded with increased pressure. Martin Hongla extended Cameroon’s advantage with a long-range strike in the 39th minute.

Kenya pulled one goal back through Michael Olunga’s header from a free kick, but Cameroon quickly restored their two-goal lead with Bryan Mbeumo’s goal, through an assist from Christian Bassogog.

The first half ended with Cameroon leading 3-1. In the second half, Kenya continued to press forward, but Cameroon’s defensive resilience held firm. Christian Bassogog scored Cameroon’s fourth goal at the 55^th minutes with an assist from Hongla.

Despite Kenya’s efforts to reduce the deficit, Cameroon’s dominance prevailed. The final whistle confirmed their victory, extending their unbeaten record against Kenya to nine wins in confrontation between the two countries.

With seven points, Cameroon now sits two points clear of second-placed Zimbabwe, who defeated Namibia 1-0. Kenya is in third place with four points, while Namibia remains at the bottom of the group with zero points.

Since their early exit from the last AFCON, Cameroon has remained unbeaten under coach Marc Brys. They have recorded three wins and two draws in both World Cup and AFCON qualifiers. Additionally, Cameroon has not lost a match at the Yaoundé Omnisport Stadium since 1988.

2025 AFCON Qualifiers: Cameroon Coach, Marc Brys Confident Ahead of Kenya Clash

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Cameroon national team coach, Marc Brys, has expressed his team’s determination to give their best in the upcoming match against Kenya.

**Marc Brys speaking during the pre-match press conference**

The statement was made during a pre-match press conference in Yaoundé on October 10th, ahead of the crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON qualifier.

“We approach this match with humility but are not overawed,” Brys stated. “We will strive to perform at our highest level, as we always do. Kenya is a formidable opponent with the same points as us, and we respect them. Our focus is on finding the right moments to exploit their weaknesses and secure a victory.”

Jackson Tchatchoua, who accompanied the coach said, “Our mentality remains unchanged since we arrived here. We have no choice but to win, especially on home soil with the passionate support of our fans. We possess a winning mindset and will give our all to achieve success.”

Cameroon and Kenya will renew their rivalry in a crucial 2025 AFCON qualifier on Friday, October 11^th. The two sides have faced off eight times previously, with Cameroon maintaining an unbeaten record. The Indomitable Lions and Harambee Stars have split their encounters in the group stage, each with a win and a draw.

Despite their unbeaten streak since the round of 16 exit at the last AFCON, Cameroon’s performances have been mixed. While they comfortably dispatched Namibia in their opener, a goalless draw against Zimbabwe raised eyebrows. However, the Lions will need to improve their attacking output to secure a place in the continental tournament.

Kenya, who missed out on the previous AFCON, have been in impressive form. They’ve suffered just one defeat in their last ten matches across all competitions and have kept clean sheets in several of those games. Their recent 2-1 victory over Namibia showcased their growing confidence.

Bryan Mbeumo, the in-form Brentford star, is expected to lead Cameroon’s attack. Kenyan-born Adam Wilson, currently on loan from Bradford City, has been making waves in the Welsh Premier League and could be a key player for the Harambee Stars.

Nso Traditional Secret Society, “Nwerong”, Confirms Ngonnso Cultural Festival, Calls for Peace

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The highest traditional secret society of Nso land, “Nwerong”has confirmed that the Ngonnso Cultural Festival, as decreed by the Paramount Fon of Nso, will take place this year from November 26 to 30. The society also called for peace to reign among the sons and daughters of the land.

***“Nwerong” moving to the Mbveh Market Square for the Announcement*** *(Photo Credit: De Lavmfu)*

The confirmation was made on October 9 in Kumbo during a public outing by “Nwerong” at the Mbveh Market Square. Speaking through an interpreter (Shey Mbisey), “Nwerong” urged the people of Nso to prioritize peace:

“Nso should hear… The first thing I am begging is that let there be peace in this land. There is nothing that can go well without peace.”

“Nwerong” added, “… I have accepted with you that the Ngonnso Cultural Week will take place.”

The secret society emphasized the importance of showcasing Nso’s traditions to the younger generation: “It is time to show the tradition of the land children so that they can see what Nso is made of.” The society further urged all compound heads to prepare their lands and pray for peace.

“Nwerong” cautioned families against the practice of “washing of Faays” and stressed the importance of thorough due diligence by competent persons before any candidate is presented for enthronement as a compound head.

Among other things, “Nwerong” encouraged mothers and the wives of their sons to maintain harmonious relationships and avoid unnecessary conflicts.

The Ngonnso Cultural Festival, the largest cultural event in Nso, is making a triumphant return after a seven-year break. The festival was suspended in 2017 due to the socio-political crisis in the Northwest and Southwest Regions.

This year’s edition, themed “The Culture of Peace and Reconciliation,” will take place from November 26 to 30, 2024.

The Ngonnso Cultural Festival commemorates Ngonnso, the mythical founder and mother of the Nso people. In the 1950s, Nso residents began an annual cultural week to celebrate this Nso hero, warrior, and founder. Yaya Ngonso, as she is also known, was the first Fon (head) of Nso.

BSFC Day 5 Match Preview: Teams On Brink As Fate Hangs In Balance

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The stakes are high for Group A teams in the BSFC competition as they prepare for their do-or-die matches this Sunday, October 13^th.

***Nso Boys vs Promise Enterprise (3rd day of play)*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

With only two spots available in the next round from the group, the pressure is mounting on each team to deliver a strong performance when they face each other in the 5^th day of play in BSFC.

Promise Enterprise vs NDECA FC

This Sunday’s clash between Promise Enterprise and NDECA FC promises to be a must watched encounter, as both teams fight for their survival in the competition. This will be their first-ever meeting, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the match.

With three points each, Promise Enterprise and NDECA FC are currently occupying the second and third positions in the group. A victory for either side would secure their place in the next round, while a loss could prove fatal to their tournament hopes.

Given the high stakes, fans can expect a fierce battle between these two rivals. The talent and experience within both squads ensure that the match will be a spectacle for fans to enjoy.

***NDECA FC*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Nevertheless, this encounter promises to be a high-scoring affair, as both teams possess a wealth ready to deploy it during the match day. However, midfield battle will be crucial, as the teams will be seeking to kill and control the tempo of the game besides creating scoring chances.

While a draw would favor Promise Enterprise’s chances of qualifying, a victory for either team could dramatically alter the group standings. This Sunday’s match is shaping up to be a must-watch for fans of the competition.

Takijah FC vs Nso Boys

Takijah FC and Nso Boys will clash in another match of the day. The two teams will have a story of their own to tell when they meet for the first time in the BSFC.

***Takijah FC*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Nso Boys will surely be playing the match relaxed, given that they are already a step into the next phase of the competition. From every indication, they will be playing with confidence and aiming to maintain their unbeaten streak. A victory on Sunday would solidify their lead and give them a significant advantage heading into the final stages of the tournament.

Takijah FC, on the other hand, are already eliminated from contention but are determined to finish the season on a positive note. Despite having no stakes in the competition, they will be motivated to play with pride and leave a lasting impression. A win would provide much-needed morale boost and set them up for a successful campaign in the next edition of the BSFC.

From all indications, fans can expect an exciting atmosphere filled with excitement, anticipation, and passionate support. As their favorite teams battle it out on the field, should be ready to cheer their teams to success as every goal, every tackle, and every save could be crucial in determining which teams advance.

Nso Indigenes Hail Return Of Ngonnso Cultural Festival As Step Towards Peace, Reconciliation

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Sons and daughters of Nso land in Bui Division, Northwest Region of Cameroon, have celebrated the announcement of the 2024 Ngonnso Cultural Festival as a significant step towards peace and reconciliation in the land.

***Cultural Display during the 2017 edition***

The news was shared in a communiqué released by the executive committee of the Nso Development and Cultural Organization (NSODA), signed by the Paramount Fon of Nso, HRH Sehm Mbinglo I and the President General, Shey Tadze Adamu Mbiydzela.

“I’m overjoyed to witness this moment,” said Samson Kpuyuf, an indigene of the land. “The return of the Ngonnso Cultural Festival is a monumental step towards restoring peace and reconciliation in Nso land.”

Shey Nathan Fai echoed this sentiment, noting that the festival’s return is the most significant event in the Nso land history, especially given the ongoing crisis that began in late 2016.

“I commend our Fon and the leaders of NSODA for this great initiative, which I believe will bring much-needed peace and reconciliation to the land,” Fai stated.

Emilia Tirnyuy expressed similar enthusiasm, saying, “Nso people, both within and outside the land, yearn for peace. I’m proud and happy that as a Nso woman, we’re taking steps towards that goal. The return of the Ngonnso festival is a giant leap forward.”

Many sons and daughters of the land have praised the leaders of Nso for their efforts to restore peace and reconciliation in a land deeply affected by the ongoing socio-political crisis in the Northwest and Southwest Regions of Cameroon.

Ngonnso Festival Returns After A 7-Year Pause

This year’s edition, themed “The Culture of Peace and Reconciliation,” will take place from November 26 to 30, 2024.

***Governor Lele L’Afrique and the then Minister of Culture, Prof. Mouelle Kombi at the event***

During the Ngonnso Cultural Festival, Nso people showcase their rich cultural heritage through traditional dances, art exhibitions, and crafts. The Nso people are people of the Bamenda Grass fields in the Northwest Region of Cameroon.

One of the festival’s objectives is to preserve and promote the Nso people’s cultural heritage. This heritage is evident in their arts, crafts, and historical sites.

Ngonnso, the matriarch of the Nso Dynasty, migrated from Rifum in the Adamawa Region in 1394. Her siblings, Nchare Yen and Mfoomban, founded the Bamoun and Mbamois Dynasties in the West Region and Bafia in the Center Region, respectively.

Historical records indicate that in 1394, three members; Mfoombam, Nchare Yen, and Ngonnso (Nchare Yen’s sister) of the Rifum Royal family in Bankim, Adamawa Region, Cameroon, left their home in anger due to a succession dispute.

In honor of this influential woman, the Nso people, under the leadership of their Fon, named their cultural festival after her. The Ngonnso Cultural Festival is a celebration and promotion of Nso culture to the world.

BSFC 2024 – Day 4: Dzekwa Rangers, Melim United Secure Crucial Wins for Second Round Qualification

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The fourth day of the 2024 Bui Sports Fans Competition saw intense action on Sunday, October 6th. Dzekwa Rangers and Melim FC delivered impressive performances, earning significant victories that solidified their positions in the tournament.

Melim United Dominates Bui Diaspora FC

In the first encounter, Melim United delivered a commanding performance in their second group match, securing a decisive 2-0 victory over Bui Diaspora FC. The match, played under a clear sky, showcased the attacking prowess and defensive solidity of Melim United.

***Melim United and Bui Diaspora FC confronting each other*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Despite the high stakes of the game, both teams started with a lack of energy and appeared unmotivated. However, the match quickly gained momentum as players began to find their rhythm. The first half was characterized by end-to-end action, with both sides creating chances but failing to convert.

In the 35th minute, Melim United came close to taking the lead but were unable to capitalize on their opportunity. On another occasion, Bui Diaspora had a chance to score but lost track as the first half ended in a 0-0 tie.

In the second half, both teams stepped up their efforts, coming closer and closer to breaking the deadlock. A turning point came at the 50^th minutes when Melim United’s Derick Tata broke the deadlock with a stunning long-range shot that left the Bui Diaspora goalkeeper, Macmillan Yufenyuy helpless.

The goal provided a much-needed boost to Melim United, who continued to dominate proceedings. However, Bui Diaspora’s hopes of a comeback were dealt a significant blow when their defender conceded a penalty in the 73rd minute. Tata Derick stepped up once again and calmly converted the spot-kick, doubling Melim United’s lead and effectively sealing the victory.

In the closing stages of the match, Bui Diaspora pushed forward in search of a consolation goal but were unable to capitalize on their chances. Melim United’s defense remained resolute, ensuring that their clean sheet remained intact.

The victory over Bui Diaspora FC is a significant boost to Melim United’s confidence as they look to make a strong impression in the tournament. In their first group match, Melim United played to a 1-1 draw with Dzekwa Rangers. Their next challenge will be against Mile One FC.

Dzekwa Rangers Beat Mile One 2-0

In the second encounter of the day, Dzekwa Rangers put up an impressive form with a convincing 2-0 victory over Mile One Kumbo in their second group match. Both teams, aware of the stakes involved in the game, began the match with determination. Based on their positioning and technical abilities, both teams controlled the ball confidently.

***Dzekwa Rangers FC and Mile One Kumbo FC facing each other*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

The early stages of the game were evenly contested, with both sides creating chances but struggling to break the deadlock. The breakthrough came in the 35^th minute when Dzekwa Rangers’ Bertrand Awiydzerla found the net with a well-placed shot.

Providing a much-needed boost to Dzekwa Rangers, the team continued to dominate possession. However, Mile One Kumbo fought hard to equalize but were unable to break through the resolute Dzekwa Rangers defense. The first half ended 1-0 in favor of Dzekwa Rangers, who looked poised to extend their lead in the second half.

The second half saw both teams continue to battle fiercely. Dzekwa Rangers continued to press forward, looking to increase their lead. Their efforts were rewarded in the 63^rd minute when Leonard Wirba increased the tally putting his team in a comfortable position.

Mile One Kumbo made several substitutions in an attempt to claw their way back into the match but were unable to create any clear-cut chances. Dzekwa Rangers’ defense remained solid, ensuring their lead was well secured as the match ended on a 2-0 win.

At the final whistle, Dzekwa Rangers secured a convincing 2-0 victory over Mile One, keeping them in a strong position to qualify for the next phase of the competition. However, the remaining group games will still be crucial.

Cameroonians Hail MINESEC’s Unique Student Registration Number

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Cameroonians have expressed enthusiasm over the Ministry of Secondary Education’s (MINESEC) recent announcement of a unique student registration number, set to be implemented in the 2024/2025 academic year.

Speaking to News-lens, residents of Yaoundé praised the initiative, highlighting its potential to enhance transparency and accountability within the education sector.

Eve Marie, a concerned parent, expressed her delight, stating, “I am particularly pleased with the introduction of the unique student registration number. This move will undoubtedly bring much-needed order to our education system.”

Bertrand, a local trader, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of student monitoring and the eradication of fraudulent documents. “This is a positive step,” he said. “It will help curb the circulation of fake documents.”

Taxi drivers also joined the chorus of approval, commending the ministry for recent positive changes. One driver noted, “Since the current minister took office, we’ve seen significant improvements at MINESEC. This new registration system is another step in the right direction.”

The unique student registration number is expected to safeguard parents’ investments in their children’s education by ensuring traceability of student payments.

MINESEC Aims To Ensure Transparency, Verify Diploma Authenticity

The unique number was launched on August 1 in Douala after a meeting. Among other things, the initiative aims to enhance transparency and verify the authenticity of certificates issued at the end of each academic year.

During the meeting, the Minister of Secondary Education, Professor Nalova Lyonga, stressed the need to modernize education to safeguard Cameroonian schools through this system.

“Digitalization is an unavoidable reality, and MINESEC must lead the way. This is why we opted for the Unique Registration Number platform,” she stated.

Professor Fabien Nkot, Secretary-General of MINESEC, added, “The electronic payment system established by MINESEC is on the right track. After six years of evaluation, we have decided to introduce the unique student registration number to guarantee the security and traceability of students, whether in the public or private sector. Students will retain this number throughout their school career.”

MINESEC officials explained that the registration number will accompany students throughout their education. Payments can be made to the preferred operator using a mobile phone or ATM.

Beyond ensuring the dematerialization and security of electronic payments, the unique identification number will also bolster the credibility of diploma awards and the legality of enrollments at all levels.

This measure is expected to eliminate age falsification, report card forgery, and drug use on school premises. Students transferring between schools will be monitored, and their files will comprehensively record their academic journey.

Since Professor Nalova’s appointment, MINESEC has been committed to creating a safe learning environment. The Ministry initiated the digitalization of exam and school fee payments in partnership with mobile phone operators and money transfer companies at the beginning of the 2018/2019 school year.

This innovation addressed irregularities in the payment and management of financial resources in public schools. Consequently, contributions and exam fees were channeled through MINESEC-approved partners (CAMPOST, Express Union, MTN Cameroon, and Orange Cameroon) and deposited in a bank account at Afriland First Bank.

Beyond transparency, traceability, and security in financial management, the project has improved real-time access to student enrollments, increased government revenue, and controlled student enrollment among other things.

Despite these achievements, challenges such as difficulties in using digital platforms, financial officer discharge requirements, cash payment preferences among financial agents, and non-compliance by some principals have been identified.

To address these issues and further enhance transparency, MINESEC has introduced the unique student registration number.

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