by Yevgeny Bort
Douala, September 20, 2025. I am writing this at night, when the city has settled down and the joyful echoes of children’s voices still resonate in my heart. Today, together with Stefan Tischer, my friend and deputy chairman of OmO–MEcoVEA, I was personally in Douala at the celebration that marked the conclusion of our summer Saturday school for digital skills and simultaneously kicked off the new school year. It was a very warm-hearted, vibrant day — without much pathos, but filled with meaning.
“We do not wait – we act”
When we started the first school, I was excited. Today, standing on stage, I no longer saw just a classroom with computers, but the first building block of a larger system centered around knowledge, equal opportunities, and sustainable development. And I repeated the words I truly believe in:
In today’s world, computer skills and basic programming knowledge are not a luxury, but a necessity. This is the language of the future. The path to freedom, choice, and independence.
Over a hundred guests and twenty-five certificates
More than a hundred people attended our celebration: our students, their siblings, neighbors, our partners and supporters. Twenty-five children received certificates — their first serious success, earned through their own efforts. Together with Stefan, we presented the certificates and listened to presentations: some showcased their first website, others confidently explained the rules of digital safety, and yet others presented their first line of code. In the children’s eyes, I saw interest and confidence. That is priceless.
Parents – the silent heroes
What touched me the most was something else. Despite very difficult financial and social circumstances, parents found ways to support their children. Some were brought from distances of over 50 kilometers — over bumpy roads, in heat and rain; some teamed up with neighbors to organize transport; others came by public transport or even on foot. This is a victory for the community and proof that education truly matters.
Partners – not “for show”
With us were representatives from Cameroonian business and politics as well as foreign charities — our partners and supporters. Their presence had nothing to do with protocol. From the stage came concrete commitments: scholarships, equipment, organizational support for the next cohort. We discussed the details right away and began to translate words into actions.
We are not a charity case. We are creators. We are partners. We are the ones who roll up our sleeves and get things done.
What the children take away
In addition to the certificates, the children take with them self-confidence, skills, and the desire to move forward. Starting in the autumn, we will add foreign languages, programs for adults, internships abroad, as well as modules on digital security, office tools, and programming basics. We are building an educational ecosystem where growth is possible from the first click to the first internship.
A Living Bridge Between the Continents
Our project is a platform for dialogue and solidarity. The historical connections between Cameroon and Germany gain contemporary significance here: humanitarian and educational initiatives become a soft power that connects people and brings real results. In Germany, this also sends a strong societal signal: Interest in Cameroon meets concrete action – attracting the attention of government agencies, foundations, and responsible companies. Such a living bridge is needed by everyone – here and there.
Honestly About the Scale
I am pleased about this day, but I say it openly: It is a drop in the bucket. Digital inequality and poverty do not disappear with just one school. Dozens of similar initiatives are needed throughout Cameroon and the countries of sub-Saharan Africa; we need partners, technology, transport solutions, and scholarships for children from remote regions. We will continue – and we invite all those who care to join us.
The Ray of Light of This Journey
This journey has not been easy. Many heavy impressions, many questions without simple answers. And this celebration became the only bright ray of light – a moment that makes us feel: Our work has meaning.
What Comes Next: An Article and Photo Report to Follow
We are preparing a detailed publication and a photo report on the actual situation in Cameroon – about how humanitarian aid functions in reality and what happens to the funds that Europe sends to the region. We will report honestly, without embellishment.
And until then – a little positivity. Today, the children laughed, parents embraced, partners offered help, and Stefan and I stood in the midst of it all and felt something very simple: We are together.
Education is not just knowledge. It is the key to the future, a weapon against poverty and dependency, a bridge between people.
Who We Are:
KEM NET Sarl – technological and organizational project partner in Cameroon. Director: Alexander (Alexandre) Kem.
Occident Meets Orient – Multicultural and Ecological Vision for Eurasia and Africa e.V. (OmO – MEcoVEA) – an international platform at the intersection of education, human rights, culture, and sustainable development. Chairman: Yevgeny Bort; Deputy Chairman: Stefan Tischer.