At installation ceremony: New ICT University VC unveils ambitious roadmap to transform institution.

The accomplished Prof and renowned telecommunications expert, took the bold commitment during an installation ceremony held yesterday in Yaounde.

Prof Emmanuel Tonye, who replaces Prof Jean Emmanuel Pondi, was commissioned during a ceremony, attended by several government dignitaries, including the Secretary General at the Ministry of Public Works and a representative of the Minister of State, Minister Higher Education.

The General Manager of Cameroon Radio Television, CRTV, Charles Ndongo, was also in attendance.

While Prof Emmanuel Tonye was installed as Vice Chancellor, VC, the outgoing VC, Prof Jean Emmanuel Pondi, assumed the pioneer role of Honorary Vice Chancellor. Prof Awono Onana Charles, for his part, was installed as Vice President of the University.

When the Founder and President of the Board of Trustees of the ICT University, United States-based Prof Victor Mbarika, took to the rostrum, he was full of praises for the outgoing VC, Prof Jean Emmanuel Pondi.

Describing him as one of the pillars of the university, Prof Mbarika said Prof Jean Emmanuel Pondi's tenure in office has been nothing but remarkable.

In further throwing flowers on the Professor emeritus, Prof Mbarika described Prof Pondi as a tried and tested leader.

He said "Prof has been an elder brother, father and mentor. If there is one anything I have learned from him is humility. I want to promise you (Pondi) I will not disappoint".

Taking the cue, Prof Pondi told yesterday's gathering he was leaving the office of Vice Chancellor as a proud man.

The endowed professor of International Relations, said his heart was "filled with both nostalgia and gratitude, as I end my journey that began in January 2022".

The former Director of the International Relations Institute of Yaounde, IRIC, recalled that "precisely four years ago, I began a journey. I assumed the responsibility of leading this great institution. I took the commitment to position this institution as a university of innovation. My tenure witnessed massive growth in infrastructure and most importantly, the lives we impacted".

My vision for ICT University

When the new Vice Chancellor of ICT University, Prof Emmanuel Tonye, mounted the rostrum, he first thanked the Board of Trustees of the university for finding him worthy of the strategic role. 

While promising not to disappoint in the confidence bestowed in him, Prof Tonye expressed gratitude to Prof Pondi, for positioning ICT University among the leading institutions in Cameroon and the Subregion.

The widely travelled University don and serial author, said: "The ICT University is not just a higher education institution but it is a great pan-African project, a strategic platform designed to train students in the digital era, who will transform our continent and extend our influence beyond its borders".

He then pledged that "under my leadership, I will ensure that each student realises a project capable of impacting society".

Prof Tonye noted that "...we acknowledge the sacrifice in pursuing higher education and we are committed to ensuring that this investment yields fruits".

Speaking further, he said; "...to the faculty and administrative staff, you are the true architects of knowledge and guardian of our excellence. I encourage you to embrace pedagogical honesty, scientific rigour and a spirit of selflessness. Together, let us cultivate a culture of excellence."

Turning to the students, the VC said: "You are the reason for the existence of the ICT University. You embody the potential of the continent; cultivate intellectual curiosity and critical thinking. Africa needs you".

Prof Tonye told graduates of the University, that "I am aware of the recurrent problem of certification,a major issue that must be resolved as soon as possible".

Prof Tonye said he will "work closely with the President to expedite the process and ensure that certificates are issued as soon as possible. This is one of my top priorities and the key outcome of my tenure as Vice Chancellor of the ICT University".

Enter minister's representative 

Speaking at the close of yesterday's installation ceremony, the representative of the Minister of State, Minister of Higher Education, Prof Fongoh Augustina Genla Nwana, on behalf of her boss, Prof Jacques Fame Ndongo, praised Prof Pondi for his role in contributing to the growth of the higher education sector in Cameroon.

In a letter issued by Minister Fame Ndongo and read during the ceremony by Prof Fongoh, the minister stated that: "I wish to express my sincere gratitude and appreciation for your distinguished service to the higher education system and as the Vice Chancellor of the ICT University".

Prof Fame Ndongo told Prof Pondi that "your leadership and dedication have been instrumental in elevating the ICT University into an institution of academic reference in Cameroon, thereby strengthening the credibility and quality of our national higher education system".

"I warmly congratulate you for the remarkable services you have rendered. Your patriotism, commitment and devotion to the advancement of our nation are deeply appreciated and I encourage you to continue this lovely mission with the same zeal and dedication" the minister said of Prof Pondi.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3653 of Friday December 12, 2025