Story, Louvier Kindo Tombe
What began as a classroom idea for Fonkoua Fotso Alexandre, student at Institut Polyvalent WAGUE has now turned into a digital solution aimed at changing how companies communicate internally.
The young student stood before visitors on Thursday, March 12, presenting “STIX”, a startup project designed to simplify communication and data exchange within enterprises.
His presentation was one of the highlights of the 2026 Entrepreneurial Open Days (JPOE), where classrooms were transformed into mini innovation hubs showcasing the creativity of students from across the Mefou and Afamba Division of the Center Region.
Held under the theme “Creativity in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: From Craftsmanship to High Technology,” the event brought together students, teachers, entrepreneurs and education officials to explore how young people are blending traditional skills with emerging technologies.
A digital solution born in the classroom
For Alexandre and his team, the idea behind STIX is simple: reduce the endless movement of administrative staff across offices in search of information.
The platform which is still under design, upon completion will act as a digital communication space within an enterprise, allowing staff from different departments to exchange data and information quickly without having to move physically between services.
The student explained how the project was built through teamwork and supported by artificial intelligence tools.
“Participating in these open days helped me gain experience and discover new fields and opportunities around me,” he said.
“It also introduces us to the digital world.”
His presentation captured exactly what the event was designed to promote—students turning ideas into practical innovations.
Innovation beyond technology
Across the campus of Institut Polyvalent WAGUE, dozens of other student-projects were on display.
Learners from several institutions—including Complexe Scolaire Golden, Collège Technique Bilingue Golden and Collège Privé Polyvalent Tsinga Village—participated in nearly a dozen workshops covering fields such as accountancy and commercial management, administrative communication, fashion and design, and electronics.
Some projects focused on traditional craftsmanship enhanced with digital tools, while others explored solutions rooted entirely in technology.
The diversity of ideas demonstrated how technical and general education can converge to encourage creativity, entrepreneurship and problem-solving among young learners.
Encouraging the next generation of innovators
Education officials present at the event commended the students for their ingenuity and commitment.
Mr. Mvogo Dominique, representative of the Divisional Delegate of Secondary Education for Mefou and Afamba praised the quality of the projects and the level of dedication shown by the participants.
“The students have truly respected the vision of the ministry, and I am proud of what I have seen so far. We can only encourage them to become professionals in the future,” the representative said.
For the administration of Institut Polyvalent WAGUE, hosting the event marked a significant moment for the institution.
“It is the first time WAGUE is hosting this event, and it is something we have been longing for,” the school’s principal, Blaise Dami said.
“It completes our series of academic events, and we are satisfied with what the students are presenting.”
Preparing students for tomorrow’s economy
Beyond exhibitions and presentations, the Entrepreneurial Open Days aim to strengthen the link between schools and the professional world while encouraging students to develop an entrepreneurial mindset.
Through project demonstrations, workshops and discussions with entrepreneurs, participants explored how traditional skills—from craftsmanship to administrative work—can evolve through the integration of digital tools and artificial intelligence.
For students like Alexandre, the event represents more than just a school activity. It is an opportunity to test ideas, gain confidence and imagine real solutions to real-world problems.
Events like the JPOE are increasingly seen as a way to prepare young Cameroonians for a future where innovation, entrepreneurship and artificial intelligence intersect—and where the next big idea might just begin in a classroom.
