Pays tribute to late Pro-Chancellor, Prof Ako Edward Oben
By Ikome Christie-Noella Eposi in Buea
The Finance and General Purposes Committee of the Council of the University of Buea (UB) held its statutory session on Saturday, September 27, 2025, in the Central Administrative Building boardroom, marked by both routine governance and a profound sense of loss, following the death of Pro-Chancellor and Council Chairman, Professor Ako Edward Oben.
In the absence of Professor Oben, whose passing was announced by the Minister of State, Minister of Higher Education on August 18, 2025, in Yaoundé, the committee invoked decree No. 93/034 of January 19, 1993, which stipulates that in the absence of the Pro-Chancellor, members present shall elect one among them, excluding the Vice-Chancellor and staff, to preside. Accordingly, Dr Tarh Bessong Frambo, representative of the Presidency of the Republic, was elected to chair the meeting. A minute of silence was observed in honour of the late Pro-Chancellor before deliberations commenced.
-Adoption of 2024 Accounts
The committee’s primary task was the presentation, examination, and adoption of the university’s 2024 Administrative and Management Accounts. Presented by the Director of Financial Affairs alongside the Accounting Officer, the accounts were approved after what members described as a thorough review.
The accounts balanced income and expenditure at FCFA 9,552,020,653, a performance the committee praised as evidence of sound financial management. Members congratulated the administration for producing clear and comprehensive documents that facilitated deliberations and commended the institution’s compliance with financial regulations.
Chairing the session, Dr Tarh Bessong Frambo highlighted the central role of the committee, noting that its purpose was “to examine the assets and liabilities of the university, and how management has engaged in using them in light of the adopted budget.” He stressed that such reviews, though routine, remain critical for accountability and progress.
-Endorsement of staff promotions and programme adjustments
The committee also endorsed proposals for the promotion and advancement of academic staff. Some of the staff had completed the required years of service for professional elevation, while others had acquired additional academic qualifications enabling them to progress on the academic ladder.
Equally, amendments to some programmes of the Higher Teachers’ Training College (HTTC) were approved. These reforms are expected to align training with national education needs while enhancing the quality of teaching professionals produced by the university.
Speaking to the press after the session, Dr Bessong Frambo explained: “It was essentially dedicated to examining, reviewing, and eventually adopting the management and administrative accounts of the university for the 2024 budget year. Additionally, we endorsed the promotion of staff who had attained the required longevity of service as well as those who obtained additional degrees.”
-Presidential support for university infrastructure
The committee expressed gratitude to the Head of State, President Paul Biya, for his donation of FCFA one billion to support the improvement of infrastructure at UB. Members pledged to ensure that the funds are utilised transparently and strictly for their intended purposes, noting that the additional resources allocated in 2024 had already strengthened key faculties such as the Faculty of Engineering and Technology and the HTTC.
According to the Chair, Dr Tarh Bessong, members’ satisfaction was evident: “They have done a lot in terms of the resources allocated to the various programmes of the budget. So far, the additional resources have been used as budgeted. By adopting the accounts, members agreed with the management style of the administration.”
-Mourning a historic loss
Beyond financial and administrative matters, the meeting was overshadowed by the tragic loss of Professor Ako Edward Oben. Chairperson, Dr Bessong described his passing as “the first in history where a sitting chair of council, the Pro-Chancellor of the university, leaves in such an abrupt and unexpected way.”
He called on the administration to work closely with Professor Oben’s family to ensure he is accorded a befitting farewell, stressing that while the university must continue to function, it owes its late leader the honour of a dignified burial.
-Looking forward
Despite the grief, the session underscored UB’s resilience and commitment to growth. The adoption of the accounts, endorsement of staff promotions, and programme adjustments signal continuity in governance and a focus on academic excellence.
As the university community prepares to pay its final respects to its departed leader, the administration faces the dual task of sustaining institutional progress while preserving Professor Oben’s legacy of service to higher education in Cameroon.
