The Association of Student Journalists of the University of Buea, ASJUB, has raised over FCFA 1.4 million for the rehabilitation of the University of Buea campus radio, The Chariot.
This was during a fundraising drive that one of the activities marking celebrations of its 30th anniversary. The anniversary, which comprised a series of events, brought together current students and alumni.
The two-day celebration included a sports walk from Checkpoint to UB Campus and a friendly match between current students and alumni on June 12, 2035. It was followed by a grand event at the university campus on June 13, all under the auspices of Dr Ndoh Bertha, Founding Mother of JMC and Board Chair of SONARA, where a fundraising initiative was held to revamp Chariot Radio. This practical laboratory has been helping students get hands-on training for decades.
The fundraising effort, which aimed to upgrade the radio station’s deteriorating equipment, saw a positive response from alumni and current students, with a total of FCFA 1,271,000 pledged and FCFA 175,000 received in cash, bringing the total amount raised to FCFA 1,446,000. However, the association still has a way to go to reach its estimated target of FCFA 2,895,000, which will 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 Dr Nengieh Lizzie, Head of the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, 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.”
Dr Doh Beltha, the “Mother of JMC” and patron of the 30th anniversary celebration, expressed her pride 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 emphasized the importance of the students’ practical experience, saying, “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.” During the event, she made a generous pledge of over FCFA 500,000 towards the revamp of Chariot Radio, contributing significantly to the total amount raised.
The funds raised during the celebration will go towards 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.
During the June 13 event, students were also edified on best practices by three past students; Kum Leonard, Cham Victor and Babila Jonathan.
To add, a 30th anniversary magazine was launched. In it were highlights of ASJUB’s founding, evolution and growth. Awards of recognition were given to various stakeholders in and out of the association.
The following categories recognized current students: Enoh Tanjong Student Leader of the Year, Tanjong Moses; Student Leader of the Year (Level 400) Nsoyuka Guy-Bruno; Student Leader of the Year (Level 300), Dobgima Tracy Vakkilla; Student Leader of the Year (Level 200), Njambe Wisdom; Enoh Tanjong All Rounder Student Journalist of the Year, Bekali Cyprain; Most Creative Content Creator, Akonjoh Princely; Best News Anchor, Jordanie Ngouanfo; Most Informative Tiktoker, Nfor Tracy; Best News Producer, Nkemta Miracle; Best Newspaper Reporter, Nsoyuka Guy-Bruno: Best Newspaper Editor, Ngang Nadege Fungwa.
Meanwhile, Artfully Creative Awards were awarded to: Mbah Kera (Spoken Word Poetry), Ngum Godwill (Public Speaking) and Moki Becky Mende (Acting/Singing).
Meanwhile, mobile telephone network provider, MTN Cameroon, provided gifts for the awardees.
