ABOUT ME

Professor Pius Mbu Oben is an accomplished academic, fisheries expert, and ordained minister whose multifaceted career spans science, leadership, service, and faith. With over three decades of experience in higher education, aquaculture development, research, and ministry, he stands as a deeply respected figure across academic, professional, and spiritual communities in Cameroon and internationally.

Academic and Scientific Background

Born on May 20, Professor Oben earned his Bachelors degree, Master degree and Doctorate degrees from the prestigious University of Ibadan, Nigeria. He specialized in Zoology (Fisheries and Hydrobiology) for his M.Sc., awarded in March 1990, and proceeded to obtain a Ph.D in July 1995, cementing his foundation in aquatic sciences and fisheries management.

He rose through the academic ranks to become Professor of Exceptional Class by presidential decree in Cameroon, formalized in 2019. The first ever Professor of Fisheries and Aquaculture in Cameroon. His promotion to this elite status reflects a lifetime of excellence in teaching, research, and service within the university system.

Leadership in Higher Education

Professor Oben has served in several high-profile administrative roles at the University of Buea, Cameroon, including:
Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, officially assuming the role in September 2019.
Director of Academic Affairs, appointed by Presidential Decree in April 2020.

In both roles, he has led major institutional advancements, curriculum reforms, and strategic academic planning, helping shape the direction of agricultural and scientific education in the region.

Some International Honors and Research

A recipient of the prestigious Fulbright African Senior Research Scholar grant, Professor Oben conducted DNA barcoding research on Cameroonian fish species at the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa (2012–2013). He also collaborated with the California Academy of Sciences, where he was welcomed into their Ichthyology Department for comparative genetic research. His work contributes significantly to fish biodiversity preservation and international scientific cooperation.