Biography

DR. LUDWIG NSANG METUGE

Introduction

Ludwig Nsang Metuge, born on April 30, 1948, in the quaint village of Ngombombeng, Cameroon, was the cherished son of Isaac Metuge and Princess Bertha Mekang Ekwoge. Ludwig had two siblings, Sporah Epole Metuge Epse Ejede (of blessed memory) and Helen Ntube Metuge. Ludwig spent his formative years assisting his father on the farm, tending to livestock, and aiding at the local church, where his father was a catechist and served as pastor.

Childhood and Education

Ludwig’s zeal for education manifested early. After completing primary school at the Presbyterian School in Ndom, he benefited from a scholarship from the Basel Mission to further his education at the Presbyterian Secondary School (PSS) in Besongabang. Inspired by influential educators at the time, Ludwig aspired to become a teacher, leading him to ENS Bambili for further studies after completing PSS Besongabang. 

Graduating from ENS Bambili, he taught for a few years in Bangangte, gaining an understanding of the community and the local dialect. After a few years as an educator, Ludwig attended the University of Yaounde, obtaining a first degree in English Language and Linguistics.

Life took a positive twist when Ludwig earned a scholarship to attend the University of York in the United Kingdom (UK) a few years after his first degree. He graduated from the University of York with a Master’s in English Language and Linguistics in 1983. After returning from the UK and several years as a university lecturer in Ngaoundere and Buea, Ludwig obtained a Ph.D. in English Language and Linguistics from the University of Yaounde 1.

Career and Achievements

Returning to Cameroon from the UK in 1983, Ludwig faced several challenges. He was transferred to Ngaoundere to join the University Center of Ngaoundere, a state institution of higher learning, in 1983. The University Center was transformed into the University of Ngaoundere by a Presidential degree in 1993. Ludwig was promoted to lecturer at the University of Ngaoundere in 1995. He made significant contributions for two decades, serving as the Head of the English Department and Director of Student Affairs at the University of Ngaoundere. 

In 2004, Ludwig moved to the University of Buea as a lecturer and the Director of Student Affairs. He eventually transitioned to becoming the Director of Administrative Affairs at this university. 

Over his career, Dr. Ludwig authored and co-authored several academic publications. He retired in 2014, dedicating his post-retirement life to cultural and development activities in the Kupe Muanenguba region while mentoring some students and lecturers.

Family and Relationships

At 31, Ludwig took on the mantle of marriage, embarking on a lifelong journey of companionship with his beloved wife, Philo Besem Metuge. Together, they cultivated a home marked by warmth, love, and unwavering support. Ludwig’s commitment to his family went beyond mere responsibility; it was a labor of love that bore fruit in the form of seven remarkable children and eleven grandchildren.

Hobbies and Interests

Beyond academia, Ludwig found solace in diverse interests. His love for agriculture from childhood led to him nurturing and growing over 40 varieties of fruit trees in his home in Ngaoundere. His engaging conversations about the Gospel, culture, and literature showcased his well-rounded and dynamic personality. Ludwig was fluent in Douala and mastered the Bangangte and Bulu dialects. Ludwig was also an excellent table tennis player and enjoyed playing soccer with his grandkids.

Ludwig also loved proverbs. Below are a few of his favorite sayings:

“Rigorous digging does not make one a geologist.”

“Tadpoles in a stream suck the rocks from the stone but never succeed in wearing the stone down.”

Challenges and Triumphs

Ludwig’s life was marked by resilience. Overcoming poverty, living in Ngaoundere far away from his relatives, and promotion delays in academia, he triumphed against obstacles. His journey from youth struggles to raising a prosperous family and retaining his values inspired both his colleagues and children.

Legacy and Fond Memories

Dr. Ludwig Metuge’s retirement in 2014 marked the close of a distinguished career. His legacy lives on through the impactful lives of his children, grandchildren, and the countless individuals he influenced as a community leader, senior lecturer, and administrator; Ludwig’s passing in 2023 leaves behind a legacy of wisdom and sincere kindness. His memory and teachings will certainly endure in the hearts of those he touched.