Over 1.4 million raised for UB Chariot Radio revamp at ASJUB 30th anniversary

The Association of Student Journalists of the University of Buea (ASJUB) led a fundraising drive which was able to raise over 1.4 million FCFA for the rehabilitation of the University of Buea campus radio, Chariot FM. This was during celebrations marking its 30th anniversary, comprising a series of events that 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 Mrs 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 1,271,000 FCFA pledged and 175,000 FCFA received in cash, bringing the total amount raised to 1,446,000 FCFA. However, the association still has a way to go to reach its estimated target of 2,895,000 FCFA, 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 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,” she said.

Dr Mrs 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 emphasised 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 500,000 FCFA 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 thirtieth 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 with awards and gifts; Enoh Tanjong Student Leader of the Year, 2025 Tanjong Moses: Student Leader of the Year (Level 400), 2025 Nsoyuka Guy-Bruno: Student Leader of the Year (Level 300), 2025 Dobgima Tracy Vakkilla: Student Leader of the Year (Level 200), 2025 Njambe Wisdom: Enoh Tanjong All Rounder Student Journalist of the Year, 2025 Bekali Cyprain: Most Creative Content Creator Akonjoh Princely: Best News Anchor Jordanie Ngouanfo: Most Informative Tiktoka Nfor Tracy, Nkemta Miracle: Best News Producer Seilenu Precious Indah: Artfully Creative Awards Mbah Kera (Spoken Word Poetry), Ngum Godwill (Public Speaking), Moki Becky Mende (Acting/Singing): Best Newspaper Reporter Nsoyuka Guy-Bruno: Best Newspaper Editor Ngang Nadege Fungwa.