From Vulnerability to Visionaries: How a Training Program Is Championing Inclusion, Economic Empowerment for Girls in Bamenda
Story, Peter Tasi
The North West Region is grappling with persistent economic challenges exacerbated by the ongoing Anglophone Crisis, a powerful wave of change is so far being driven by young women. The Child Care Development Initiative dubbed (CCDI) Cameroon recently concluded its 2025 Summer Holiday Program, a three month intensive skills training that has not only equipped 260 students with vital skills but has also intentionally championed inclusion, particularly for girls venturing into fields traditionally dominated by men, such as electronics, computer science, and solar energy.
The program's vibrant closing ceremony, held at the North West Regional Assembly Auditorium, was a poignant display of resilience and innovation. Amidst an esteemed gathering of dignitaries, supportive parents, and dedicated partners, students proudly showcased their projects. From intricate electronic circuits to functional solar power systems and sophisticated computer applications, the presentations underscored the tangible impact of hands-on technical education as a direct response to the economic hardships faced by many families in the North West. This focus on practical skills offers a clear pathway to selfreliance and fosters local economic development, embodying the spirit of community building.
Fuh Faith Nora Angwi, a bright and articulate student from the Electronics Department, stands as a testament to this transformative journey. With a soldering iron still warm from her demonstration, she eloquently explained the functionality of her self-built voltage regulator to a captivated audience. "Before this program, the idea of understanding how to build an electronic circuit, let alone fixing one, felt completely out of reach," Fuh Faith said, adding that "...this training has not only taught me an invaluable skill but has profoundly shown me that there are absolutely no limits to what I, as a girl, can achieve in technology. More than that, this program fostered so much enthusiasm and a strong sense of community among us. We have been integrating, learning from each other, and there's been an incredible amount of cohesion."
Her heartfelt sentiments resonated deeply with Dr. Alfred Wuku Kudi, the visionary Director of CCDI, who emphasized the program’s critical role in a region constantly navigating crisis. "The impact of this training has been overwhelmingly positive, especially when we consider that these children are growing up in a crisis zone," Dr. Kudi stated while insisting that, "we are committed to giving this program a very significant impact on these young minds, equipping them with essential skills for survival and, crucially empowering them to actively contribute to the economic revitalization of their communities. We face continuous challenges, particularly with securing adequate funding and sufficient equipment, but our unwavering dedication ensures we give our absolute best to make this program a resounding success."
A cornerstone of CCDI's mission is its deliberate and successful drive to attract and empower young women in technical fields. Historically, vocational training in the North West Region has seen a stark male dominance. However, CCDI’s inclusive methodology actively encouraged girls to enroll in departments such as Electronics, Solar, and Computer Science, effectively dismantling the outdated notion that these fields are exclusively for boys as well as it also fosters the economic prowess of the region in diverse fields.
This unwavering commitment to gender equality directly aligns with the broader call for diverse representation and the empowerment of marginalized groups, serving as a powerful example of ethical and inclusive community development.
Djunang Marceliout, Head of the Economic, Social and Cultural Affairs Division, representing the Governor of the North West Region, conveyed the administration’s profound gratitude for CCDI’s initiative. "I want to take this opportunity, on behalf of the Governor, to sincerely appreciate the tremendous efforts of CCDI in shaping the future of our children," he remarked and added that, "...we have witnessed the impressive presentations from these young innovators, and we are truly inspired by what they are accomplishing. We are confident that this program will significantly support the country in his national initiative to combat import substitution and to vigorously promote technical education across Cameroon."
Prof. Fru Angwafo III, President of the North West Regional Executive Council, further underscored the importance of this collaborative and unified approach to regional development. "Education, especially now, must pivot towards coordination and fostering a deep understanding of how different professions can work together for collective good," he reiterated. "This CCDI initiative stands as a prime example of how youth engagement is not just beneficial, but essential in driving economic development and reinforcing moral rearmament within our society."
For many, the CCDI program transcends mere skills acquisition, it is a profound instrument of community healing and connection. Tamfu Simon Fai, the Public Independent Conciliator for the North West Region, described it as a "powerful tool." He elaborated, "By equipping our children with such a literacy program, we are empowering them to critically evaluate information, to identify and reject hate speech, and to acquire the vital skills necessary for building a good and truly peaceful society."
The program's positive influence stretches far beyond the individual students, creating a tangible ripple effect throughout their communities. Ihimbru Solomon, Mayor of Benakuma Council, where one of CCDI's campuses is located, highlighted this broader impact. "This initiative provides essential survival skills to students, and its benefits will undoubtedly extend across my municipality and the entire region," he affirmed. "I am immensely proud of the students who received their training right here in my municipality." The council authority said.
As the graduates of the 2025 Summer Holiday Program step confidently into the future, they carry with them not only new, indemand skills but also a profound sense of purpose and unbreakable resilience. Their story, particularly that of the girls who are boldly breaking barriers and actively building a brighter, more equitable future, serves as an inspiring narrative of hope, progress, and unwavering determination. It is a powerful illustration that even in the face of daunting adversity, innovation, inclusion, and the human spirit can flourish, transforming vulnerability into visionary leadership.
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