First Cycle Of Secondary Education(Secondary School)
The first cycle lasts for 5 years and leads to the acquisition of the general certificate of education- ordinary level (GCE O-Level).
On completion of secondary school, students may opt to end their general education and get into an apprenticeship or take up a training in an adequate institution to gain a professional qualification that enables their entry into the job market.
Many students however further their general education by entering in to high school with the aim of gaining the general certificate of education -Advanced Level (GCE- A-Level). This in turn gives them more openings in future.
Examples of subjects studied in general education in Cameroon for secondary schools include:
1. Mathematics: Mathematics is a core subject in the curriculum. Students learn topics such as algebra, geometry, calculus, probability, and statistics.
2. English Language and Literature: English is the official language in Cameroon, and it plays a significant role in secondary education. Students study grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, essay writing, and literary analysis.
3. Science subjects, including physics, chemistry, and biology, are taught to provide students with a fundamental understanding of scientific principles and processes.
4. Social Sciences: Subjects like history, geography, economics, and civics are taught to broaden students’ knowledge of the world, society, and its past, as well as to develop critical thinking about societal issues.
5. Languages: Apart from English, students also learn a second language, usually French. The study of a second language is mandatory and helps to promote bilingualism, as Cameroon is a bilingual country.
6. Physical Education and Sports: Physical education and sports are part of the curriculum to promote physical well-being, teamwork, and healthy living.
7. Computer Science: In today’s digital age, computer science is an essential subject. Students learn computer basics, programming, and digital literacy.
8. Arts and Music: Cameroon has a rich cultural heritage, and arts and music play a significant role in the curriculum. Students have the opportunity to learn traditional dance, music, and visual arts
9. Religious and Moral Education: Cameroon is a religiously diverse country. Religious and moral education is included to foster understanding, respect, and ethical behavior.
As stated above, a special form of secondary education is the comprehensive school. Here, not only general education subjects are offered, but also subjects from the area of commercial education like Economics, Commerce, Accounting, Bookkeeping, Marketing, Insurance, Secretarial work etc. These subjects can also be taken at GCE-O-Level.
Second Cycle Of Secondary Education (High School)
An entry requirement into high school is a pass in at least four subjects at GCE-O-Level. The high school lasts for two years. There are two main branches: The arts and science branches. These subjects are further divided into series as seen in the table below. Before studying in high school, there must be at least a defined series among the subjects that one passed in at GCE O-Level. Many students however do not know this and get to know of it only, when after passing at the GCE-ordinary level, they notice that there is no combination among their subjects. In choosing the areas to focus on at ordinary level, students ought to know about the series offered at high school. They can then target passing subjects that consist series of interest to them.
Unlike in some countries, choosing a series in the Cameroonian education system predisposes to a particular domain of professional fields later in life. It also excludes other professional fields. If one studies history, literature and economics, this entails that you will in future not be eligible to study any science subject or get in to a science inclined profession like engineering.
In the table below, you find a summary of the possible series at high school and the professions one is expected to get into, after attaining General Certificate of education. In the past years, we experienced many students who completed high school, passing in arts subjects, but wished to become nurses or study computer sciences. This indicates that these students were not well informed and did not take the right decision on which subjects to take at high school. The earlier a student knows his/her tendency and maybe a profession he/she wishes to get in, the better. Then, they could embark on studying relevant and appropriate subjects at high school. This way, they are best prepared for the future.
On completion of high school, students earn a general certificate of education-Advanced Level (GCE A-Level). This is an entry requirement to tertiary education and at the same time an entry requirement in some professional training institutions.
Secondary Technical Education
Some specific areas of focus in technical schools are woodworks, electricity, building construction, home economics, cloth design and production, typography, moto mechanics and plumbing. Some of the areas of studies are briefly defined bellow as follows:
1. Electrical Engineering: This area of study focuses on electrical systems, circuits, and devices. Students learn about electrical installations, wiring, maintenance, and troubleshooting. They acquire skills in electrical engineering principles, safety protocols, and practical applications.
2. Automotive Mechanics: Students studying automotive mechanics gain expertise in repairing, maintaining, and diagnosing problems in motor vehicles. They learn about engine systems, electrical systems, suspension, and braking systems. The curriculum also covers automotive technology advancements and safety procedures.
3. Plumbing: Plumbing programs in technical colleges train students to become skilled plumbers. They learn about pipefitting, installing plumbing systems, water supply, drainage, and sanitation. Students gain practical knowledge through hands-on training that prepares them for real-world plumbing scenarios.
4. Welding and Metal Fabrication: Technical colleges offer programs that teach welding techniques, metalworking, and fabrication. Students learn how to join and shape metals for construction, manufacturing, or artistic purposes. They acquire skills in various welding methods.
5. Carpentry and Joinery: This area of study focuses on woodworking skills, including furniture making, cabinetry, and carpentry techniques. Students gain knowledge of woodworking tools, material selection, blueprint reading, and furniture design. They learn how to construct and install wood-based structures and finishes.
6. Information Technology: Technical colleges also offer programs in information technology, covering subjects such as computer hardware, software installation, networking, and troubleshooting. Students develop skills in programming, database management, cyber-security, and system administration.
7. Catering and Hospitality: Technical colleges provide training in catering and hospitality, teaching skills for food preparation, culinary arts, baking, and hospitality management. Students learn about food safety, menu planning, event management, and customer service.
8. Fashion Design and Tailoring: Technical colleges offer programs in fashion design and tailoring, providing students with the skills needed for garment creation, pattern making, sewing techniques, and fashion illustration. They also learn about textiles, fashion trends, and fashion entrepreneurship.