Holy Cross International College (HCIC), a Catholic Anglo-Saxon boarding school in Yaounde, has officially commenced its 2025/2026 academic year. The school, which offers both national and international studies, welcomed students back to campus on September 7 in a day filled with emotions.
Old and new students alike were greeted by an atmosphere of laughter, joy, and the bittersweet tears of both students and parents. Parents began arriving as early as 10 a.m., with the administration ensuring a smooth and organized reception. From a distance, families could be seen taking photos and sharing heartfelt goodbyes, some shedding tears at the thought of being apart for the next four months.
For students, returning to school was a moment of renewed purpose. William Bouiti, who achieved 11 A-grades in his Ordinary Level exams, shared his excitement. “It is a moment of joy to be back home in the arena of learning and to continue working hard,” he said, adding that his ambition is to give his best.
New students expressed their positive first impressions. Asseng Nguelle, a new Lower Sixth student, noted, “The environment is very nice and beautiful. I have made two new friends and they are very welcoming. My ambition is to make the school and my parents proud.
” Hilary Ileen, a new student from Kenya in the Cambridge International Section, shared her excitement about her first boarding school experience. “I feel excited to be here,” she said. “Coming to a boarding school is tough, knowing you are leaving friends and family, but I am excited to meet new friends.” She also believes the experience will help her build discipline and focus on her academics.
Parents, while happy to see their children resume their studies, acknowledged the feeling of an “empty space” back home. Nevertheless, they emphasized their encouragement for their children to study well.
The administration confirmed that all preparations have been made for a smooth academic year. As students were checked in, a thorough search was conducted to ensure their belongings complied with the school’s code, prioritizing student safety.
The 2025/2026 academic year officially kicks off on Monday, September 8. Holy Cross International College is coming off a successful 2024 academic year, having achieved a 100% pass rate in all sections during the end-of-course examinations.
HCIC is situated on the outskirts of Yaoundé, specifically in Akok, just 5 km from the Nkoabang junction along the Yaoundé-Bertoua Road. With core values such as Academic Excellence, Leadership, Moral rectitude and international mindedness among others, one of the goals of HCIC is to give students the academic and personal confidence to succeed beyond the gate and in life.