He stressed that genuine leaders are born in communities and underscored the Caucus’s commitment to investing in education. “Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world,” Dr. Asafor stated, adding that the awards serve as a reminder that “genuine progress is born of a community.” He encouraged the recipients to consider their awards as an oath to “always figure in the circle of excellence wherever you go in Cameroon and beyond.”
The Caucus president also took the opportunity to commend the teachers and parents for their crucial roles. Dr Chi Asafor used the occasion to call for effective school resumption for the 2025/2026 academic year. He also underscored the need for peace and unity.
Building Tomorrow’s Leaders
Dr. Chi Asafor reiterated that through its constant support of education and rewarding of excellence, the Caucus is building those who will succeed them in future.
“We are preparing the youth to take over and we want excellent youth to take over from us. We want a legacy, a legacy of excellence,” he said, adding that, “There is no way the gun can win a war. But the pen will always win the war”.
He urged parents to continue investing in their children’s education, stating, “If you give them sound education, they will fetch for themselves.”
The Mayor of Santa Council, His Majesty Samkie Elvis praised the Mighty Santa Caucus for the move and appealed to the leaners to sustain the culture of excellence they have build in academics.
SDO Lauds Dr Chi Asafor’s leadership, Caucus
Speaking at the event, the SDO for Mezam, Simon Emile Mooh, praised the Caucus and the leadership prowess of Dr Chi Asafor.
The event culminated in the award of scholarships to several learners. Each received a package that included cash and school supplies. Among the laureates was Muluh Desire, an Ordinary Level candidate, who expressed immense gratitude. "I'm so, so grateful for what Santa Caucus has actually done to me," Muluh said.
Muluh said he received books and cash of 50,000FCFA, stating that, “this money is going to actually help me. I will be able to buy all my textbooks this year; I'll even pay part of my school fees”.
Another recipient, Mulutakwi Blessing, who succeeded in the General Certificate of Education, GCE, Advanced Level confirmed receiving, “…two ledgers and a sum of 50,000 FCFA with my certificate”.
She thanked the Caucus for rewarding her hard work, declaring that the donation "…will help me a lot because going to school now, at least I know that I have something to use as part of my school fees and things to purchase."
With regards to the prize awarded to the laureates, Patrice Lumumba, member of the Mighty Santa Caucus elaborated that, the total focus is on excellence. Lumumba said "last year, 120 students were awarded a total amount around 12.5million and this year, the number has increased with 165 students awarded to the tune of 13.5 millions FCFA”.
Lumumba said the number of beneficiaries and amount will increase next year.
The package to the students comprised of certificates, didactics, and cash of between 50,000 and 75000 FCFA. As at yesterday’s event, officials said the Caucus has in the last few years awarded 400 outstanding learners, investing over 45 million FCFA in their education.
Besides O Level and A Level, there were beneficiaries from universities at the both the masters and PhD levels.
Story, Peter Tasi
