“The University has lost a leading figure; Cameroon, a scholar” Remarks by the Rector of the University of Yaounde I, Professor Remy Magloire Etoua, representing the Minister of State, Minister of Higher Education, at the academic tribute ceremony for Professor Barnabé Mbala Ze, which was held on Friday, 12 December 2025 at the Yaounde Advanced Teachers Training College. A moment of deep reflection in memory of a man whose academic career and

professional dedication are now an integral part of Cameroon’s intellectual heritage.

 

The formal ceremony was attended by a high-profile audience. Those present included Professor Marie-Thérèse Abena Ondoua, Minister of Women’s Empowerment and the Family, the Rector of the University of Yaounde II, the Director-General of CRTV, as well as numerous university officials, colleagues, students and members of the deceased’s family.

 

Throughout the speeches and eulogies, the speakers unanimously praised Professor Mbala Ze’s remarkable career: an outstanding lecturer, a man of integrity and a passionate educator. A former Director of the ENS Yaounde, he dedicated his life to training entire generations of teachers, making a significant contribution to the development of Cameroon’s education system. His professional rigour, moral integrity and humility left a lasting impression on his colleagues, his students and the entire institution.

 

In his address, Professor Remy Magloire Etoua conveyed the university community’s heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, while expressing profound gratitude to all those who had taken part in paying the tribute. He recalled that Professor Mbala Ze leaves behind an exceptionally rich intellectual and moral legacy, and stands as a model of integrity and service.

 

The ceremony drew to a close on a deeply moving note, with farewell songs, heartfelt tributes and moments of shared silence. Through this tribute, the University of Yaounde I and ENS honoured a quiet yet pivotal figure, whose memory and legacy will continue to illuminate the path to academic excellence in Cameroon.