Application Requirements

Documents to submit

1. A copy of your national identity card or your school identity card.
2. A proof of GCE Advanced level or Baccalaureat (transcripts or diploma).
3. One letter of recommendation from current or past instructor or other person in a supervisory role familiar with the student’s academic and financial qualifications. Letter of recommendation must be emailed directly from the referrer to:  [email protected]  (prior to deadline: October 21st, 2023).
4. An Essay on any (1) of the (3) topics listed below. The essay should be written in 1000 words with a margin of 10% more or less. Line spacing 1.5; font, times New Roman and should include the applicant’s full name at the top of the essay.
5. Show a proof of registration to a Cameroonian university or college for the school year 2023-2024⁽¹⁾

• ⁽¹⁾ You can still apply even if not yet registered at a Cameroonian university. However, you will be required to show proof of registration prior to any scholarship award.

letter of recommendation from current or past instructor or other person in a supervisory role familiar with the student’s academic and financial qualifications. Letter of recommendation must be emailed directly from the referrer to  [email protected]  before the October 21st 2023 deadline.

TOPICS:

Subject 1: Social Media as a Tool for Promoting Bamileke Culture

The candidate must address this topic in the form of a dissertation, building their argumentation on at least 4 of the 6 points listed below:

1 – Defining social media and its impact on modern society. Briefly introduce Bamileke culture and its significance in Cameroonian society.

2 – Showcasing Bamileke culture through social media: Examine how social media can be used as a platform to promote and preserve elements of Bamileke culture, such as traditional dances, music, crafts, cuisine, etc. Highlight concrete examples of initiatives and social media pages that showcase Bamileke culture.

3 – Preserving the Bamileke language and ancestral customs: Discuss the importance of preserving the Bamileke language in the face of the growing influence of international languages on social media. Analyze how social media can be utilized to teach the Bamileke language and pass down ancestral customs to younger generations.

4 – Challenges and risks: Address potential challenges related to using social media to promote Bamileke culture, such as misinformation, cultural dilution, or the loss of authenticity. Examine the risks of cultural appropriation when Bamileke culture is shared on social media without proper acknowledgment of its origin and significance.

5 – The economic and social impact of promoting Bamileke culture on social media: Analyze how the promotion of Bamileke culture can stimulate the local economy by encouraging craftsmanship, cultural tourism, etc. Discuss the social aspects related to cultural pride and identity, and how it can strengthen social cohesion within the Bamileke community.

6 – The role of institutions and individuals: Study how institutions, such as cultural organizations and governments, can support the promotion of Bamileke culture on social media.

Subject 2: The Dowry (Dote) Among the Bamileke, Past and Present

The candidate must address this topic in the form of a dissertation, building their argumentation on at least 4 of the 9 points listed below:

1 – Historical Context of the Bamileke: Begin with a brief introduction to the Bamileke as an ethnic group in Cameroon and present their past social and cultural organization.

2 – Evolution of the Dowry Over Time: Analyze how the practice of dowry among the Bamileke has evolved with social, economic, and cultural changes over the years.

3 – Ancient Practices and Rituals Associated with the Dowry: Describe customs, ceremonies, and rituals related to the dowry among the ancient Bamileke, emphasizing their symbolism and cultural significance.

4 – Factors Influencing Change: Identify factors that have contributed to the perception and practice of dowry, such as media influence, education, urbanization, etc.

5 – Comparison Between Past and Current Practices: Highlight the differences and similarities between past and present marriages concerning dowry, associated gender roles, etc.

6 – The Effect of Dowry on Women’s Empowerment: Study how dowry may have impacted women’s autonomy and whether recent changes have led to improvements in their social position.

7 – Role of Legislation: Examine whether dowry is still regulated by laws and if the laws have evolved to adapt to new social realities.

8 – Future Perspectives: Make projections about the likely evolution of dowry practices among the Bamileke and its role in preserving their cultural heritage.

9 – The Traditional Significance of Dowry: Explain what dowry was in the traditional Bamileke society, its role in marriages, and its social and economic importance.

 

Subject 3: The Tontine Among the Bamileke: A Socialization Element or Economic Instrument?

The candidate must address this topic in the form of a dissertation, building their argumentation on at least 4 of the 9 points listed below:

1 – Introduction to the Tontine Among the Bamileke: Briefly present the concept of tontine and its significance in the culture and society of the Bamileke.

2 – Tontine as a Socialization Element: Analyze how the tontine plays a role in strengthening social ties, promoting solidarity among community members, and encouraging cooperation.

3 – Tontine as an Economic Instrument: Study how the tontine is used as an informal financial mechanism for saving, investing, and accessing economic resources within the community.

4 – Historical Background of the Tontine Among the Bamileke: Research the origin and evolution of the tontine practice among the Bamileke to understand how it has been passed down from generation to generation.

5 – Functioning of the Tontine: Examine the operation and rules of the tontine among the Bamileke, with a focus on the responsibilities and benefits for participating members.

6 – The Role of Tontine in Women’s Economic Empowerment: Analyze specifically how the tontine can be a means for women to engage in economic activities and gain financial independence.

7 – Social Impact of the Tontine: Evaluate how the tontine contributes to the construction of cultural identity and social cohesion within the Bamileke community.

8 – Tontine Facing Modern Challenges: Explore how the tontine adapts or resists social, economic, and technological changes in contemporary society.

9 – Comparison with Other Savings and Credit Systems: Draw parallels between the tontine and other formal and informal savings and borrowing mechanisms present in Bamileke society.