Society

University of Buea: ASJUB celebrates 30 years, raises over 1.4M FCFA to revamp Chariot Radio.

Some lecturers and alumni association members

The Association of Student Journalists of the University of Buea, ASJUB, has celebrated 30 years of existence.
The commemorative event was marked with a series of events that brought together current and former students and lecturers of the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, JMC.

The two-day celebration included a sports walk and a friendly football match, followed by a grand fundraising initiative to revamp Chariot Radio, a practical laboratory that has been helping students get hands on training for decades.

The funds raised will enable the department to upgrade the radio station's deteriorating equipment and buy some new materials. The association was able to mobilise 1,446,000 FCFA.

The amount raised during the 30th anniversary celebration however, fell short of the estimated target of 2,895,000 FCFA, previewed by ASJUB to cover the costs of essential equipment and installations, including a 1KW transmitter, audio console, microphones, computers, digital recorders, headsets, blinds, carpets, chairs, and tables.

According to the Head of the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, JMC, Dr Nengieh Lizzie, the 30th anniversary celebration was crucial in identifying the department's growth and progress over the years.

"It is very important for us to celebrate this 30th anniversary... Leadership is shared, and as the head of the department, you need assistance not only from the administrative staff but also from the students," she said.

Students during the event at the Open Commons

For her part, Dr Ndoh Bertha, fondly referred to as the "Mother of JMC" and patron of the 30th anniversary celebration, expressed joy in the department's growth and legacy.

"When I talk about JMC, I think about the early days... We started with 30 students, and now I see a lot of students, but I am impressed that the family legacy is still there," she said, emphasising the importance of the students' practical experience.

"The legacy that we want to leave behind is for the students to have a platform where they can exercise their abilities, learn, and appreciate what we have," she added.

The funds raised during the celebration will be used in revamping Chariot Radio, enabling students to access better equipment and facilities to develop their skills.

As ASJUB continues to grow and evolve, the revamp of Chariot Radio will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of journalists.

By Ngang Nadege, Journalism student on internship

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3475 of Monday June 16, 2025