The Stranger I won't forget by @rosita-nkefor

I still remember that day as clear as a blue sky. It was the 16th of October 2019. That was the day I was writing my competitive entrance exam into the Higher Teachers Training College at the University of Bamenda.

I was jittery not only because I didn't attend preparatory classes, but because I will be stepping foot into Bambili for the first time, since the crisis began in 2017. The area was rumoured to be a warzone with the "rebels" constantly kidnapping students. This period was not good because it was life threatening to be a student. Nevertheless, life couldn't stand still and we had to adapt.

With all my documents and writing materials set, I went on my way. I prayed long and hard that morning for anything could happen. When I boarded the taxi, I avoided contact with everyone and held my bag tightly. My phone was buried deep yet reachable in my bag and I closely watched my surroundings for any suspicious activity. I considered nobody as my friend and slowly made my way toward what was supposed to be Bambili.

When the taxi stopped at the final stop for university students, I alighted and stood utterly confused on where to go. Scared to ask anyone, I just watched people to see who might aid me. Suddenly, a young woman who boarded the same taxi as I asked me if I was to write the concours. I debated refusing but seeing my options limited, I said yes. She then told me she also had to write the concours into the second cycle and that I should follow her. With no other choice, I did.

Surprisingly, she was a very nice and kind lady and wasn't a child kidnapper as I was wary of. She kept me company and helped me with directions to find my hall. I never got her name nor told her mine since I was still cautious. We were just strangers, but the encounter was one I'd never forget.