The Centre for Clinical Pastoral Education and Social Services (CECPES) held its graduation ceremony For the June 2024 batch of social workers at the Baptist Centre Nkwen on April 2, 2025. The event marked a significant milestone for the graduates, who have completed their training and are now equipped to make a positive impact in their communities.
The event opened with the entrance of the graduating students, who marched with pride as they entered the hall. CBC Health Services Chaplaincy Supervisor, Rev. Dr. Nfor Ephesians in his exhortation from Acts 3: 1-10, emphasized on Divine Compassionate Caregiving highlighting three main attributes; compassionate eyes, compassionate words and compassionate touch. He said, the big picture there is compassion and rejoiced that “Today, it has pleased the Lord to send some compassionate givers into the team. We put the word divine because any other person can give compassion. We are here to send forth the givers because the world is full of receivers,” said Rev Dr Nfor Ephesians.
In his keynote address, Rev. Mbuh Julius, Director of CECPES congratulated the graduates on their achievement, giving a word of thanks to the guardians, parents and spouses as well as the lecturers who were so diligent in providing the necessary knowledge to the students. He emphasized the importance of social work in addressing the highs, lows and moves that are being made to make this training grow complex challenges facing communities today. Rev. Mbuh Julius stated, “I urge you, the graduates, to be the second ambassadors wherever God will place you to serve humanity. We pray that God Almighty provides opportunities for you all to have jobs after your graduation”.
After undergoing extensive training at CECPES, the graduates now possess the abilities and know-how to offer people, families, and community’s comprehensive care. Some of the graduates gave brief reflections on how the process has been and how this training has equipped and empowered them.
One of the graduates, Mrs Claudine Fein stated in her presentation on Social work, training and self-work, “As I learned more on Social work, I began to understand the importance of compassion, now I approach every situation with an open heart. My journey in social work has been transformative. I recognise that everyone has their own stories and struggles and it’s crucial to listen and understand rather than judge”.
Miss Jamba Anita, another graduating student, talking on social work and professional competence shared her gratitude with CECPES training and said, “CECPES has not only equipped me with the skills to seek employment but has also instilled in me an alarm system that immediately triggers when my actions are not aligned with the best interest of the people I am to serve”.
Mme Tatiana Nchang also one of the graduates, gave a talk on the topic, Social work and field experience expressed, “In class, social work appears structured with clear guidance on handling cases, maintaining professional ethics and engaging with vulnerable populations. However, field experience presents realities that theory alone cannot prepare one for. The experience taught me that social work is not just about paper work, but also about navigating human emotions, administrative challenges and military resources”.
The atmosphere was filled with joy, pride, and a sense of accomplishment as the graduates received their certificates presented by key dignitaries and took the Social Workers Professional Oath led by Mr Bankui Frederick.
Warms words were offered by the Director of Health Services (DHS) represented by Mr. Warri Denis (DDAFF), praised CECPES for implementing a transformative approach to learning, highlighting the essence of professional education.
“Dear graduates, I take this opportunity to congratulate you on your hard work that has given you this achievement. As social workers in Cameroon you have a real opportunity to make a difference in the lives of people. You have been equipped to be catalyst of social change, advocates for the marginalised and champions of social justice. You are called upon to always remember the values that guide your professional paths in commitment to social justice. Once again congratulations and may your career be filled with purpose, meaning and a profound impact in the lives of the people you will serve,” Mr. Warri Dennis said.
The DHS’ representative went further to say, “Be ambassadors of CECPES and continue to light the candle to everyone who sees what you are doing”.
The graduates also received congratulatory messages from the Divisional Delegate of Women Empowerment and Family, Mr. Zofoa George as well as the Divisional Delegate of Social Affairs, Mr. Nkwende Cliff.
The series of greetings was crowned by a word from the Executive President of the Cameroon Baptist Convention, Rev. Dr. Teke John Ekema, who in his closing remarks said, “Together, we can work to see that with God we will always be able to make a difference. You have been called by God and equipped not to go out there and abuse the world but to amaze the world, that is the difference that you will make. I encourage you to embrace the Godly values you have received through this program because that’s what makes the difference,” the EP admonished. Bamenda Field Pastor, Rev. Apongde Richard prayed to dedicate the students into the hands of God followed by light refreshments.