Resumption of Doctoral Programs in Cameroon. In a move set to revitalize the nation’s academic landscape, the President of the Republic, H.E. Paul Biya, has officially authorized the reopening of doctoral recruitment within Cameroon’s State Universities.
The decision, which follows “Very High Instructions” issued on November 6, 2025, marks the end of a hiatus in PhD admissions and underscores a new era for higher education and research in the country.
A Selective Re-entry: 600 Seats Nationwide
According to a directive relayed by the Secretary General at the Presidency to the Minister of State, Minister of Higher Education, the President has approved the selection of 600 candidates for the 2025/2026 academic year.
This quota will be distributed across all State Universities, ensuring that research laboratories from Maroua to Buea benefit from this fresh influx of academic talent.
Strategic Framework and Implementation
To ensure the integrity of the selection process, the Ministry of Higher Education (MINESUP) has been tasked with implementing a rigorous framework. The recruitment process will be governed by:
- Specific University Quotas: Precise allocations of seats for each institution.
- Strict Timetables: A clear chronogram that candidates and faculty must follow.
- Compliance: All selections must remain within existing academic regulations while fulfilling the specific presidential directives.
“This resumption is not just about numbers; it is about the long-term sustainability of our university teaching corps and the advancement of national research,” noted an academic observer in Yaoundé.
Information for Candidates
Prospective doctoral students are encouraged to consult the full press release to understand the specific procedures and quotas assigned to their respective fields and universities.
The official document, containing the complete timetable and application requirements, is now available for download through official government channels and university administrative offices.

