By Eyongeta Eyong
St. Mary’s University Institute has been honored as an Outstanding Higher Education Institution by the Cameroon English Language Newspaper Publishers Association (CENPA).
The prestigious recognition was handed to the institution Saturday July 5. This was during a ceremony at Buea Mountain Hotel that grouped personalities among them jury members of the CENPA second edition award viz; President Tambe Tiku Christopher; Secretary, Felix Nkongho Abor Balla and Ngah Christian Mbipgo as member.
The award, officials said, underscores the institution’s commitment to international education standards and its role in equipping young Cameroonians for global competition.
St. Mary’s University Institute features state-of-the-art infrastructure that enhances the learning experience. The modern structures is designed to accommodate advanced classrooms, laboratories, and comprehensive facilities, fostering an environment conducive to learning. In addition, the institution is proud to house the St. Mary’s International College which aims to be a leading center for education and research in Cameroon.
Vision, Mission
The University institute operates with a clear vision: “A revolutionary learning community that inspires creativity, the pursuit of academic excellence, and strong character formation”.
This vision empowers students to become lifelong learners, servant leaders, and exemplary citizens capable of making a significant impact on their communities.
St. Mary’s mission is to “educate and equip independent learners who actively engage in complex, diverse, and evolving societies.”
The institution fosters a safe and equitable environment that promotes critical thinking and creative problem-solving, recognizing each student’s uniqueness and providing multiple pathways to achievement.
The creation of SMUI reflects the college’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. The institute serves as a welcoming community where students, faculty, and staff from various backgrounds can learn and innovate in an environment of respect. SMUI offers a broad array of courses in the humanities, engineering, biomedical sciences, and social sciences, exploring the complex socio-political landscapes and cultural traditions that shape Africa.
Where SMUI Makes The Difference
Key components of the SMUI curriculum include: Examining contemporary issues in Cameroon and Africa to understand and respond to global challenges. Fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and generating new research on African development. Engaging policymakers with intentional exchanges aimed at advancing African development.
Inspiring a gifted generation of scholars and professionals to engage with Africa’s complexities. Strengthening interdisciplinary knowledge through collaboration across university departments. Generating innovative research on Africa by both SMUI faculty and global scholars. Providing a platform for diverse perspectives on African development. Facilitating exchanges with policymakers to inform research efforts.
SMUI adopts an Open Curriculum approach, allowing students to personalize their course of study. This flexibility encourages autonomy and responsibility in their academic journeys, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and innovative problem-solving skills. The rigorous yet adaptable framework prepares students to thrive as global leaders in a competitive environment.
In addition to academic support, SMUI provides tailored teaching, unparalleled pastoral care, and comfortable, affordable accommodation. The institution is enriched by cultural diversity and offers numerous opportunities for social engagement and sporting activities.
With its commitment to excellence in education and research, St. Mary’s International College, alongside the St. Mary’s University Institute, is poised to become a significant academic institution in Cameroon. As CENPA celebrates this achievement, the recognition serves as a testament to St. Mary’s ongoing dedication to shaping the future of higher education in the region and beyond.
