Frederic Arsène Youbi Si Nziko, nicknamed as “Youbi,” recently demonstrated profound gratitude to his former school, Government Bilingual Primary School (GBPS) Mbalmayo. He recently donated school supplies valued at several million CFA francs, directly benefiting his alma mater.
The donation ceremony was a notable event, presided over by Thérèse Mani, the Subdivision Inspector of Basic Education for Mbalmayo.
Speaking after the presentation, Mani Therese and Felix Gami Kamga, Head Teacher of GBPS Group 1, Mbalmayo, lauded the timing and scope of Youbi’s contribution. They described the gesture as exemplary—one that addresses an immediate need and sets a powerful precedent for other former pupils to follow.
Cross Section of gifts donated by Frederic Arsène Youbi Si Nziko to GBPS Mbalmayo
Read the two interviews
Interview with Mani Therese Inspector of Basic Education at Mbalmayo
Madam the inspector of Basic Education, you are here, to preside over this ceremony to hand over material gifts to pupils of this establishment. How do you appreciate this ceremony?
Mani Therese : For the gifts, we express our gratitude to the donor, a former pupil of this school, the first bilingual school in Mbamalyo. We recognize that schools often thrive thanks to alumni donations.
A pupil who has grown up and returned to his home school—his roots—to show appreciation for the education he received and to thank his teachers. When he expresses gratitude to the teachers, he also acknowledges the State, which has supported him and played a significant role in his success. His return to say thank you to the State is truly appreciated.
In your speech, you did not fail to present the difficulties and challenges face, because you believe many other schools and orphanages in your area are in needs. Can you explain more?
Yes, in my speech, I told Youbi—the donor—that he is not only a child of this school but also a Cameroonian. In the past, there was only one school here. If he were present today, I’m not sure who would be in this school, as we now have schools everywhere. We already have other schools in Bileng, Angkor, and Ouyak.
This is a call I wanted to make to the donor: while he thinks about Mbalmayo, he should also consider these other schools. Like Oliver Twist, we express our gratitude and also ask for more.
Officials and pupils after the donation ceremony
Interview with Felix Gami Kamga, Head Teacher of GBPS Group 1 School of Mbalmayo
How do you feel after this ceremony?
Felix Gami Kamga : Today is a very wonderful day for the Government Bilingual Primary School Group 1 Mbamalyo. This truly feels like a dream come true. We have been envisioning gestures like this, and we encourage other elites and alumni to follow Youbi’s example.
Do you think that this donation should serve the purpose to which it is intended?
The donation has come at a crucial time, as my collaborators—the teachers—have been working under challenging conditions. I believe this support will greatly improve the teaching and learning process at the Government Bilingual School Group 1 Mbamalyo.
Can you tell us more about this bilingual school?
The Government Bilingual School was established in 1979 as the sole English school in the Nyong and So’o. However, as the population continued to grow, it was divided into two groups—Group 1 and Group 2—in 2003. In 2004, a nursery school was added, followed by the creation of a second nursery school. Today, the school has given rise to the Government Bilingual Primary School Group 2, Government English Nursery School Group A, and Government English Nursery School Group B, all operating within the same complex.
What message do you have for Youbi- the Donor?
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Mr. Frederic Assene. May God replenish your sources and grant you good health. I hope you consider extending your generosity beyond your alma mater, so that more Cameroonians can benefit from your kindness. Once again, thank you very much!
By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo
