The official installation ceremony of the newly appointed officials of the University of Dschang by Presidential decree no 2014/545 of 10^th December 2014 and Ministerial order no 2014/0930/MINESUP of 16^th December 2014, took place at the Amphi 600 of the University on the 6^th of January 2015. This remarkable occasion was presided over by the Rector of the University, Prof Anaclet FOMETHE and had in attendance, S.D.O of the Menoua, Joseph Bertrand Mache NJOUONWET, the D.O,  the Mayor, Beaudelaire Donfack , the Senator representing the West Region, Etienne Sonkin, traditional rulers, religious leaders, family members among other guests graced the occasion. After the rendition of the national anthem by the University Choir the appointment text was read.

During his installation speech for the over 30 newly appointed staff, the Rector emphasized that the nation is undergoing transformation and as such, the University on its own part is transiting to modernization, which is aimed at positioning the University at the top of other State universities in the country. He added that, to optimize the efficacy and institute development in the University environs, change is essential at the helm of management.

He reiterated that the newly appointed staff should uphold the LMD system, and contribute their know how in uplifting the students confided to them. He advised the appointed academic staff to exhibit their competence in achieving the designed goal of the University and admonished staff to display a high sense of responsibility.

The Rector continued: 

He described the occasion as a strong base for those going on retirement who had actively and satisfactorily served the State through their tireless efforts in the various domains and functions they occupied. He lauded their efforts over the years. The Rector in his rather emotional speech expressed nostalgia as he extended a congratulatory message to the former Dean of the Faculty of Letters and Social Sciences and Head of Department of Philosophy, Psychology and Sociology, Prof DIMI Charles Robert. He described him as his “preferred philosopher and a reference” and exalted his academic prowess shown over the years at the service of Higher Education in Cameroon and the development of the University of Dschang in particular.

He depicted Prof DIMI as loyal, a committed researcher and excellent administrator who was one of the brains behind the creation of the Institute of Fine Arts in Foumban alongside many other disciplines in the Faculty. He assured the University community of total commitment of Prof DIMI in assisting the students who registered for their theses at the Ph.D level.

He stated that the former Dean will be missed. The Rector did not hide his feelings for Prof Manjeli Yacouba who was the then Head of Animal Production at the Faculty of Agronomy and Agricultural Sciences, and thanked him for all his contributions. Prof FOMETHE lauded Dr Djoutso Phostin Roger, the former chief of protocol and public relations whose originality in performing his duties will always be engraved in the University community’s memory.

The Rector described his majestic walking steps during occasions as breathtaking, Mr Fouematio Samuel who served as an administrative personnel and exhibited high sense of decorum was also praised. He applauded the services, victories and battles of Mr. TCHINDJIE Jean Paul Head of service for sports, Mr. MANY Gideon, former Coordinator of Wood works, Water and Environment at the Antenna of the University in Ebolowa, Mr Ella Assako Maurice former financial chief of service at the Ebolowa antenna, and Mr. Kobla Fridolin Head of Administrative and Financial Division at the Faculty of Letters and Social Sciences.

He wished them the best in their new endeavours. Prof Fomethe highlighted that those who celebrate them today bear witness of their immense contribution to nation building and would definitely emulate the positive attributes displayed by them. He concluded by advising the staff to consider those going on retirement as a guide to excellence.

This installation ceremony is a baptism to put you all into motion for service to the nation

The Rector in his speech encouraged the newly promoted staff to pursue developmental objectives to position the nation at the limelight for 2035. Since the nation was faced with insecurity along the borders, he cautioned all to be vigilant, denouncing all acts of terrorism, identifying suspects and join in the fight against terrorism with the Head of State, President Paul Biya. He called on the newly appointed to be steadfast and dedicated to the challenges set before them. He emphasized that the success of the University depended solely on how it is managed while appealing to staff to imbibe vigor in service. He advised them to put a pushful hand at the LMD system and budget programme, that is, “being attentive to the needs of the students……….” Respect the rules set up by management and inculcate the 5 concepts of success of the University of Dschang “which are responsibility, respect, excellence, quality and innovation”.

The boss congratulated all the newly appointed staff on behalf of the University community and made reference to the presence of Dr Momo Bernard, the Coordinator of the National Programme on Governance and assured him of the prompt support from the University community. The occasion ended with a presentation of bouquets from family members and a snapshot to immortalize the occasion.

This is a step towards enriching the activities of the University, and it is expected that the fruits of such changes would be reaped in the years to come.