After a five-year hiatus caused by the ongoing Anglophone crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic, SOBA America once again held its SOBA America Day on the campus of St. Joseph’s College, Sasse, on October 9th, 2022. This annual event is a celebration of the school’s heritage, where SOBA America provides scholarships to students, offers a special meal, and engages with the staff and students. It is a festive occasion that brings together SOBANS, parents, staff, students, and other dignitaries.
This year’s event held special significance as the Pa Ferdinand Ngando Assembly Hall was officially dedicated. President Emeritus Mafany Itoe represented me at the event, as a last-minute emergency kept me in the United States. Emeritus Itoe led a delegation that included SOBAN Raymond Elumba, SOBAN Lyonga Masonjo, and President Alain Taku. SOBA President General Ayuk Pride Iyok and SJC Sasse Proprietor His Lordship Bishop Michael Bibi were among the distinguished guests in attendance.
The day’s activities commenced with a mass celebrated by Principal Fr. Isaac Anuchem. Following the mass, attention turned to the highlight of the day—the dedication of the Pa Ferdinand Ngando Assembly Hall. This project was initiated to honor Pa Ferdinand Ngando, the longest-serving principal of SJC Sasse, who led the institution from 1977 to 1992. At 98 years old, Pa Ngando’s impact on the school and its students remains profound.
When our administration announced this project, we called on SOBANS worldwide to participate in honoring a man who has touched so many lives. The response was overwhelming, with contributions coming from SOBANS, friends of SOBA, and SOBA America.
SOBA General Secretary Eugene Kebei provided a riveting biography of Pa Ngando, highlighting his remarkable journey in education. SOBAN Raymond Elumba paid tribute to the staff members who were instrumental to Pa Ngando’s success. President General Iyok emphasized the importance of SOBANS coming together for the common good of our alma mater, noting that the realization of this project is a testament to our collective strength.
President Emeritus Mafany Itoe shared personal greetings from me, thanking all who contributed to the project and the project team led by Emeritus Ibeagha for their smooth execution. Technical Project Manager, SOBAN Dr. Ebob Etta, presented a maintenance guide and highlighted the importance of proper maintenance of the building. After the ribbon-cutting ceremony, SOBAN Etta showcased the newly renovated and equipped Assembly Hall.
Although Pa Ngando could not attend the event, he sent a personal message of gratitude printed in the official program. His son, George Ngando, represented him and expressed heartfelt thanks on behalf of his father. Principal Fr. Anuchem also expressed his gratitude to SOBA America, SOBANS worldwide, and other patrons who contributed to the project, promising to ensure the Assembly Hall is well maintained.
The students of SJC Sasse also enjoyed SOBA America Day festivities, receiving a special catered meal sponsored by SOBA America. The scholarship awards ceremony was a highlight, with awards given for academic performance, good moral character, and cleanliness. The 1979 class presented the Kenneth Ndelle Best Crammer Award in honor of their fallen member.
Honoring Pa Ferdinand Ngando
Pa Ferdinand Ngando is the longest-serving principal of St. Joseph’s College, Sasse, having served from September 1977 to August 1992. He is the only layperson to have held this position. His tenure helped cement SJC Sasse’s reputation as one of the finest institutions in Cameroon. Born in the mid-1920s, Pa Ngando’s journey in education took him from Catholic Primary School in Baseng through various teacher training colleges and universities, culminating in a master’s degree in education from Calgary University in Alberta, Canada.
Pa Ngando’s career in education began early, and he served in leadership roles at several teacher training colleges before becoming the principal of SJC Sasse. His leadership helped propel the school to academic and sports excellence. Despite the challenges, including the brutal handing-over ceremonies in the third term, Pa Ngando’s tenure left a lasting legacy, grooming some of the finest leaders Cameroon has produced.
The dedication of the Pa Ferdinand Ngando Assembly Hall is a fitting tribute to this remarkable man. Pa Ngando and his wife, Monica, are enjoying their retirement in California.
Celebrating the Staff
As we honor Pa Ngando, we also recognize the dedicated staff who supported him:
- Mr. Peter Enang: Longest-serving Vice-Principal and the first SOBAN to hold the position.
- Mr. William Nkong: Longest-serving auxiliary worker, ensuring students had light and water.
- Mr. Matthias Ngole: Pa Ngando’s private secretary.
- Pa Yaro: Senior kitchen staff.
- Mr. John Tansinda: Discipline master in the 70s.
- Pa Stephen: Long-time school driver.
To these fine individuals, we say thank you for your service and dedication.
Conclusion
SOBA America Day was a resounding success, highlighted by the dedication of the Pa Ferdinand Ngando Assembly Hall. This event demonstrated the power of unity and the impact of our collective efforts. Let us continue to honor our heritage and contribute to the growth and success of our alma mater.