The Ministry of Higher Education (MINESUP) has announced the selection of 600 candidates for doctoral studies across Cameroon's 11 state universities for the 2025/2026 academic year. This decision, formalized on March 24, 2026, by Minister of State Jacques Famé Ndongo, ends a period of uncertainty for many Cameroonian and international students.
The reopening of PhD admissions follows instructions from the President of the Republic, Paul Biya, highlighting the government's commitment to promoting scientific research and the training of elites. University administrators, in collaboration with MINESUP, reviewed candidate applications, prioritizing merit and the supervisory capacities of the institutions.
The rigorous selection process allocated the 600 places among the state universities, including Yaoundé I and II, Douala, Dschang, Ngaoundéré, Buea, Bamenda, Maroua, Ebolowa, Bertoua, and Bafoussam. Admission criteria include holding a Research Master's degree or equivalent, with a minimum grade of 12/20. Exceptions may be granted in cases of exceptional merit, gender balance, or inclusion of persons with disabilities, while still respecting the minimum grade.
Successful candidates are required to contact their respective universities to finalize their registration for the 2025/2026 academic year. MINESUP has published the lists of admitted candidates on its website to ensure transparency in the process.
This reopening of PhD selections is seen as a strong signal for the revival of university research in Cameroon. The university community has welcomed this initiative, which offers young Cameroonians the opportunity to contribute to the development of their country through research. However, challenges remain in terms of supervision, funding, and equipment to ensure the success of these future PhD holders. The next crucial step will be to transform this selection into concrete results.
