The University of Bamenda is an Anglo-Saxon university in Bamenda, North Western Cameroon.
History
The university opened in 2011 as the second English language university in Cameroon, the University of Buea having been the only one up till then. It began with the Higher Teachers Training College and the Higher Technical Teachers Training College as the only faculties.
Campus
The main campus of the University of Bamenda is in Bambili, a subdivision in Bamenda, Mezam Division, Northwest region of Cameroon. The village is along the Ring Road northeast of Bamenda. An Anglophone area, many schoolchildren are taught in English, and the use of Pidgin English is widespread. English and Pidgin play a significant role in community life, but the Bambui language still maintains its place as the heart language of most Bambui people. Students in the Faculty of Health Science are currently taking studies at Mile 3 Nkwen Bamenda at the campus between Fonab Polytechnic and Saint Louise Higher Institute of Health. Bambui is surrounded by a number of related languages. Bambui was thought to be a dialect of Bambili, but now it is believed that the two are probably distinct languages.
Organisation and administration
The top official in the University of Bamenda, like other state universities in Cameroon, is the Minister of Higher Education. The position is followed by the pro-chancellor and next the vice-chancellor. The vice-chancellor is assisted by the registrar. The dean and vice-dean are in charge of each faculty. The university institutes are headed by the director. Each department is controlled by the Head of Department. The student administration is headed by a Student Union President.
Admission
Admission into the higher institutes/university colleges in the University of Bamenda is done through competitive entrance exams which involve written and oral examination. Students into other faculties are required to follow a registration procedure which involves presentation of results and study of files. A pass in ordinary level English is a major requirement for students from Cameroon. Students from other countries are expected to possess proficiency in the English language; without this requirement, the applicant is automatically disqualified.
Faculties and schools
The University of Bamenda is made up of the following faculties, schools and colleges:
