GEPS Bepanda: Dangote Cement Cameroon renovates, hands over classrooms.

The handing over ceremony was held on the campus of GEPS in the Omnisport neighbourhood of the Douala V Subdivision. 

The initiative, the company officials said, goes beyond corporate social responsibility, but aims at empowering pupils and shaping the next generation of learners.

The handing over ceremony, which was held Wednesday, February 5, 2026 at the school campus, brought together officials of the Ministry of Basic Education, school authorities, teachers, parents, pupils and a delegation from Dangote Cement company. 

The project, it was revealed, was managed by officials of the company's Sustainability Department. 

Speaking during the ceremony, the Head of Sustainability Department at Dangote Cement Cameroon, Yogbag Ivanna, said the project was initiated during the company’s Sustainability Week 2025, celebrated under the theme “Growth and Partnerships”.

She noted that the renovation reflects Dangote Group’s vision of meeting the basic needs of host communities through meaningful and responsible interventions.

“This renovation may not be everything the school needs, but it is a meaningful step and a strong symbol of our commitment to improving learning conditions for children,” Yogbag said. 

“It is our way of saying: we see you, we value your children, and we are here to support you,” the official added. 

She recalled the determination of the school’s headteacher, Esther Wam Cheng, in pushing for the works to be carried out. 

Yogbag, in her speech, described the Headteachers' commitment to improving the learning environment as the driving force behind the project. 

According to Yogbag, the classrooms had suffered repeated flooding and damage linked to heavy rains caused by climate change, making the intervention both an educational and a climate-adaptation response.

“By renovating these classrooms, we are ensuring continuity in education and strengthening the resilience of this school community,” she added.

On his part, the representative of the Country CEO of Dangote Cement Cameroon, Flaubert Tchagna, who is Human Resources Head, stressed that the initiative was not limited to infrastructure development, but focused on human capital and the future of Cameroon.

“This project is not only about concrete and blocks. It is about empowering pupils and preparing the next generation of learners. These classrooms are spaces where children will build knowledge, skills and values. By improving their learning environment, we are investing directly in the future of Cameroon,” he said.

He went on to reaffirm Dangote Cement Cameroon’s commitment to supporting communities where it operates, adding that education remains a key pillar of the company’s sustainability agenda.

Hitherto, the Headteacher of GEPS Bepanda Group I A, Esther Wam Cheng, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Dangote Cement Cameroon for renovating two classrooms whose roofs were blown off by strong winds on April 14, 2024. 

She said pupils had since been studying under harsh conditions, exposed to sun and rain.

“This assistance has given our children the opportunity to study in a more convenient and dignified environment,” she said, noting that Dangote Cement also renovated offices at neighboring GEPS Bepanda 24 and GEPS Bepanda 28. 

While thanking the company, she did not fail to appeal for further support like Oliver Twist, as two additional classrooms are still in need of rehabilitation.

The Basic Education Inspector for Douala I, Motto Grace, echoed like words of gratitude noting that, the donation as timely and impactful. She said the improved infrastructure would motivate pupils and teachers alike, reduce congestion and enhance academic performance.

“When learners study in a safe and comfortable environment, their enthusiasm for school increases and their performance improves, equally the teachers who are sent here will like to do their job in this type of classroom," the inspector noted.

Founded in 1982, GEPS Bepanda, is one of the oldest English-speaking primary schools in the subdivision. 

The complex of about 12 schools, serves a large and diverse educational community with 6,000 pupils and about 200 teachers.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3699 of Monday February 09, 2026