New Vocational Training Centre in Cameroonian Diocese to Equip Youths with Skills, Steer towards Self-Reliance: Bishop

Buea, 09 October, 2025 / 6:20 PM

Bishop Michael Miabesue Bibi of the Catholic Diocese of Buea in Cameroon has announced the creation and official opening of a Vocational Training Centre in his Episcopal See.

In a statement announcing the creation of St. Joseph the Worker Vocational Training Centre, Bishop Bibi says the initiative is aimed at empowering young people with practical skills.

“With deep gratitude to Almighty God, I joyfully announce the creation and official opening of the St. Joseph the Worker Vocational Training Centre, Buea, in our beloved Diocese,” the Cameroonian Catholic Bishop says in the Wednesday, October 8 statement.

He notes that the initiative seeks to equip young people with practical skills, moral values, and Christian work ethics that will enable them to become self-reliant and productive members of society.

Bishop says the Centre  that is named after St. Joseph the Worker, the patron saint of honest labor, is to promote the dignity of work and “form responsible citizens who integrate faith, integrity, and service in their daily lives.”

He explains that the Centre draws inspiration from the facilities available at the Diocesan Pastoral Centre, which include “a modern kitchen, restaurant, spacious halls, a standard conference room, and well-furnished accommodation.” 

Bishop Bibi adds that “the ample space at the basement of the Co-Cathedral has made it possible to extend the use of these resources for the benefit of our youth and the Church.”

The Catholic Church leader indicates that theoretical classes are to take place “at the basement of the Divine Mercy Co-Cathedral,” while practical sessions will be conducted “at the Diocesan Pastoral Centre, making use of the modern facilities available.”

The Centre is set to begin operations in the 2025/2026 academic year, starting with the Department of Hotel Management and Catering Services, which will consist of 20 percent theory and 80 percent practical training.

From the following academic year, Bishop Bibi says, the institution is to expand to include Carpentry, Tailoring and Fashion Design, Electrical Installation, Plumbing, ICT, and Hairdressing.

He clarifies that the Centre shall function under the Catholic Education Agency of the Diocese of Buea and operate according to national vocational standards.

He further emphasizes that the Centre will focus on both spiritual and moral formation alongside skill development.

Admission will be open to “all young men and women of good conduct” from secondary level to university degree, he says.

Appealing for broad diocesan support, Bishop Bibi says, “I appeal to all parishes, institutions, and benefactors to support this diocesan initiative through prayers, encouragement, and material assistance.”

He adds, “Together, let us empower our young people to build a brighter and more productive future.”

The Cameroonian Catholic Bishop invokes the intercession of the Centre’s patron, saying, “May St. Joseph the Worker intercede for the success of this mission and bless all who labor faithfully in the vineyard of the Lord.”