International Organizations and Their Contributions to the Academic
System in Cameroon
International organizations play a crucial role in shaping the educational landscape in
Cameroon. Their contributions span funding, policy advocacy, infrastructure development,
technical assistance, capacity building, and scholarships, aimed at enhancing access, equity,
quality, and relevance in the Cameroonian education system. Below is a comprehensive
exploration of the contributions of key organizations, specific examples, locations,
collaborating ministries, and dates.
UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization)
Education Policies: Collaborated with the Ministry of Secondary Education (MINESEC) to
develop inclusive education policies, aligning curriculum reforms with international
standards.
Teacher Training Programs (2019–Present): Focused on capacity-building projects, training
teachers on ICT integration in Yaoundé, Douala, and Bamenda.
Technical Education and Skills Development (2021): Worked with the Ministry of Technical
and Vocational Education and Training (MINEFOP) to reform technical education,
emphasizing STEM in Buea and Garoua.
Specific Example: UNESCO-CFIT Project (2016–2022): Enhanced teacher training
institutions in Ebolowa, equipping educators with digital skills and fostering capacity
building.
UNICEF (United Nations Children’s Fund)
Basic and Emergency Education: Partnered with the Ministry of Basic Education
(MINEDUB) to set up temporary learning spaces in conflict-affected areas such as Kumba,
Bamenda, and Mamfe.
Girls’ Education: Supported initiatives for girls' education, distributing learning materials
and launching awareness campaigns in regions like Far North, Adamawa, and Southwest.
WASH Programs in Schools: Improved water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities, increasing
school attendance, particularly for girls.
Specific Example: Education Cannot Wait (ECW) Program (2019): Established over 100
temporary classrooms in the Far North Region, ensuring education for children affected by
the Boko Haram insurgency.
The World Bank
Project for Equity and Quality in Education (PEQEP, 2017–2023): In collaboration with
MINEDUB and MINESEC, constructed 300 classrooms and distributed textbooks in
Adamawa, East, and Far North regions.
Higher Education Development Support Project (2018): Modernized universities, including
digital libraries in the University of Yaoundé I and the University of Buea, in partnership
with the Ministry of Higher Education (MINESUP).
Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET): Supported skill-development
programs in partnership with MINEFOP.
Specific Example: Cameroon Secondary Education Support Project (2020): Focused on
promoting girls’ education in secondary schools in Maroua, Ngaoundéré, and Bamenda.
Conclusion
The contributions of international organizations to Cameroon’s education system have been
transformative, addressing issues of access, quality, and equity. Collaboration between
these organizations and government ministries is essential for sustainable development.
References
UNESCO. (2023). Education and Innovation in Africa.
UNICEF Cameroon. (2023). Annual Report on Education in Emergencies.
The World Bank. (2022). Cameroon Education Development Support.
African Development Bank. (2021). Youth Empowerment in Cameroon.
European Union. (2020). Erasmus+ and Education Partnerships.
Plan International. (2019). Girls’ Education Advocacy in Cameroon.
USAID. (2022). STEM Teacher Training in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Ministry of Basic Education (MINEDUB). (2023). Collaborative Projects in Cameroon.
