By Boris Esono Nwenfor
BUEA, PAV – Renowned nephrologist, academic and medical researcher, Professor Gloria Enow Ashuntantang, has been appointed the new Pro-Chancellor of the University of Buea by President Paul Biya, replacing the late Professor Ako Oben.
The appointment, announced on June 2, 2026, places one of Cameroon’s most distinguished medical scholars at the helm of the governing board of the country’s first Anglo-Saxon university.
Professor Ashuntantang brings to the position decades of experience in higher education, medical research, institutional leadership and international academic collaboration. She currently serves as Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Bamenda and is widely recognised as one of Africa’s leading nephrologists.
Distinguished Academic Career
A consultant nephrologist and Professor of Medicine, Professor Ashuntantang has built an impressive career marked by academic achievement and professional leadership.
She is a Distinguished Fellow of the European Renal Association and has received national honours as both a Knight and Officer of the Cameroon Order of Valour. Throughout her career, she has contributed significantly to medical research, co-authoring more than 100 peer-reviewed scientific publications and textbook chapters.
Beyond her academic accomplishments, she made history as the first woman to serve as President of the African Association of Nephrology (AFRAN), a position through which she championed the advancement of kidney care and medical research across the continent.
Her leadership in health sciences education and research has earned her national and international recognition, making her one of the most respected voices in African medicine.
Strategic Leadership Role
Although often misunderstood, the position of Pro-Chancellor is not responsible for the day-to-day management of the university. At the University of Buea, which operates under the Anglo-Saxon system of higher education, the Pro-Chancellor serves as the non-executive head of the institution and Chairman of the University Council, the university’s highest decision-making body.
While the Vice-Chancellor oversees daily academic and administrative operations, the Pro-Chancellor provides strategic oversight and ensures sound governance. As Chairperson of the University Council, Professor Ashuntantang will preside over meetings that determine major institutional, financial and academic policies.
She will oversee the review and approval of annual budgets, financial audits and major development projects, while ensuring that the university remains aligned with national higher education objectives.
The role also involves serving as a bridge between the university, the Ministry of Higher Education and the Presidency of the Republic, particularly on matters of strategic importance.
In addition, the Pro-Chancellor represents the university at major official events, graduation ceremonies and partnership engagements aimed at strengthening the institution’s visibility, resources and international collaborations.
Professor Ashuntantang’s appointment comes at a crucial moment for the University of Buea as it continues to expand its academic offerings, research capacity and international partnerships. Her extensive experience in academic administration and international networking is expected to contribute significantly to the University of Buea’s long-term development and strategic growth.
