Established in 1939 by the Mill Hills Brothers, SJC Sasse boasts a prestigious history of educating luminaries across various fields. Its distinguished alumni include the Prime Minister of the Republic, government officials, university chancellors, engineers, prominent business owners, and leaders in civil society, among others.

The school commemorated its 75th anniversary with a major celebration in 2014, marking a significant milestone in its rich legacy. However, the anticipated festivities for the 80th anniversary were regrettably postponed due to the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic and the prevailing insecurity resulting from the anglophone crisis.

Now that the pandemic has subsided and security concerns have greatly diminished, Sobans worldwide are eager to commemorate both the 80th and 85th anniversaries with grand celebrations. Anticipation is building as Sobans prepare for this momentous occasion. A tentative date for the festivities has been set for the weekend of December 14th, with plans for various communities and a comprehensive program still underway.

The theme for the 85th Anniversary has sparked interest among Sobans, who are actively proposing ideas they believe will best honor the event. During this commemoration, an extraordinary General Assembly is expected to convene. The GA will focus on approving amendments to the constitution, addressing chapter concerns, devising strategies to rejuvenate struggling chapters, establishing the heritage board, and outlining a bold 10-year roadmap to enhance Sasse’s infrastructure and academic standards. As the celebrations approach, Sobans are buzzing with questions and ideas about the upcoming events.

They wonder about the next major project following the road project and whether a monument will be erected to mark the 85th anniversary. There's also curiosity about the possibility of a commemorative magazine and discussions about acquiring new blazers to establish a standard uniform for all attendees. Amidst these discussions, there’s a surge of suggestions. One proposal suggests that each class undertake a mini project that costs less than five million francs (XAF 5,000,000), to be completed before the December celebrations. These projects could be selected from a list of school priorities compiled by the school authorities.

Already, some classes have identified or are actively working on mini projects in preparation for the festivities.

• SOBA 2003 is currently coordinating efforts to refurbish all the doors of the main block.
• The Golden Jubilee class, SOBA ’89, has taken charge of planning and executing the construction of a monument and garden.
• Meanwhile, SOBA ’84 is organizing tiling work for various areas within the main block.
• Additionally, SOBA ‘94 has undertaken the responsibility of installing trash cans around the main block.

The aim is for each class to undertake a transformative project that will enhance the campus significantly. As anticipation mounts for the largest gathering of Sobans since 2014, many are eagerly awaiting further details from President General Mr. Ayuk Iyok Sammy Pride and his executive team. Excitement is palpable among Sobans worldwide as they eagerly anticipate concrete details and a finalized program for the event.

Sobanly,
Edwin-Daniel Ndoko, #2949
SOBA 1979