At third graduation ceremony: Gov’t hails Yaounde Int’l Business School for grooming emerging innovators, entrepreneurs.

L-R: YIBS President, VC, Minister’s representative and other officials during event

The Yaounde International Business School, YIBS, has been praised for grooming emerging innovators and entrepreneurs who will drive Cameroon’s economic transformation.

The appreciation from the government towards the citadel of learning was made during the third graduation ceremony of the institution, which took place Saturday January 11. 

The ceremony was chaired by the Academic Inspector at the Ministry of Higher Education, MINESUP, Dr Kenfack Germaine, on behalf of the Minister of State, Minister of Higher Education, Prof Jacque Fame Ndongo.

It saw over 500 students graduate with Higher National Diploma, HND, Bachelors and Master’s degrees. The 2024 batch of graduates were christened: “Emerging innovators and entrepreneurs”.

In his remark, the Minister’s representative, Dr Kenfack, saluted the efforts of the Yaounde International Business School in grooming Cameroonians who are critical in the country’s stride towards economic transformation and emergence by the year 2035. 

“As the nation strives to become an emerging nation by 2035, government recognises the critical role that higher education plays in driving innovation, entrepreneurship and economic growth,” she said.

She added that: “The Head of State, President Paul Biya, and the government are committed to creating an enabling environment that fosters creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship, and we believe that institutions like YIBS are at the forefront of these efforts”.

Extending her congratulations to the graduates on their remarkable achievement, she expressed pride and optimism of a great future for the youth. The MINESUP official further commended the graduates for their hard work, dedication and perseverance which has paid off and earned them a place among the ranks of Cameroon's future leaders.

 

Appeal to the graduates

With the graduates commencing new chapters in their lives and careers, she reminded them that this milestone not only marks their academic success, but also testifies of their potentials in shaping the future of Cameroon.

Dr Kenfack equally stressed that the theme chosen for the graduation ceremony resonates the national aspiration of the youth being the driving force behind Cameroon’s economic transformation. 

“As you embark on your journey, I want to remind you that innovation and entrepreneurship are the engines that would propel our country forward. You have been equipped with the knowledge, skills and expertise to navigate the complexities of the 21st century economy and I urge you to be bold, take risks and push the boundaries of what is possible,” she noted.

Noting that government is committed to creating more opportunities for access to funding, mentorship and networks to ensure success in their endeavours, Dr Kenfack charged them to be the changemakers, innovators and entrepreneurs who will drive Cameroon’s growth and development. 

“I urge you to be socially responsible, to be mindful of the environmental and social implications of your actions and to always strive to make a positive difference in the lives of those around you,” she said.  

Areal view of graduands, guests at YIBS graduation ceremony

 

 

YIBS President salutes efforts of lecturers, trainees 

In his address, the Founder and President of YIBS Board of Trustees, Godfred Taku Achu, saluted the combine efforts and dedication of both the teaching and administrative staff of YIBS and the graduating students, which resulted in the remarkable academic milestones.    

The YIBS founding president described the graduates as worthy ambassadors who have been equipped with the necessary knowledge, skills and competences to face the rapidly evolving world of entrepreneurs and innovators. 

“As you step into the world beyond these walls, remember that entrepreneurship is not limited to starting your own business. It is a mindset that embraces resilience, problem-solving, risk taking and resourcefulness. Also note that innovation is not confined to technology, it is about finding new ways to add value, create opportunities, and inspire positive change,” he told the graduates. 

While thanking parents and guardians present at the ceremony for the unwavering support during the period of study, Taku expressed gratitude to the government, through the Ministry of Higher Education and University of Bamenda, UBa, its supervisory state university. He emphasised that the YIBS’s vision aligns with President Biya’s higher education vision.

 

Enter YIBS Vice Chancellor

On his part, the Vice Chancellor of YIBS, Rev Prof Anyambod Emmanuel Anya, reminded the graduating students that they are graduating at a time when the world is ripped apart by wars, internal conflicts, economic difficulties and a high rate of unemployment amongst the youth. 

In spite of the seemingly bleak future, he called on them to dream big, remain optimistic and believe in God.  

“My dear graduates, Yaounde International Business School has prepared you to stand against all forms of odds and succeed in spite of all. Make the best use of all opportunities in being creative, innovative and entrepreneurial. Take every challenge as an opportunity to excel above the impediments in life,” Rev Prof Anyambod said.

The ceremony was also featured the presentation of projects and business plans of some graduating students as well as the award prizes to outstanding students.

The Guest Speaker of the graduation, Dr Yonga Jerry, an accomplished author, professor, and entrepreneur, whose remarkable career embodies innovation, resilience, and creativity, encouraged the graduates to be, hardworking, persistent in pursuing their dreams. 

With over 35 years of expertise, spanning information technology, project management, cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence and software engineering, Dr Yonga who has made a lasting impact across multiple industries, inspiring global audiences, told the graduates that determination is the surest way to succeed. 

 

This story was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3339 of Wednesday January 15, 2025

 

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