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1 SAPIENTIA EFFULGENTIA CORPORATION ESSEC WORK BOOOK

ESSEC 2020

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RECOGNITION
PREFACE
To achieve greatness, you must acknowledge people. This edition of SE CORP.
ENCYCLOPEDIA and study materials seen the sweat and sleepless nights of so many
that time and space will fail us to cite names. However we must say very big thanks to
the following (though not exclusively):

 To GOD ALMIGHTY for bringing the dream of such a unity to pass this very
special year.
 To the national administrators for their team spirit, tolerance and visionary ideas
without which SE CORPORATION may not have come to be.

 To all regional coordinators, center coordinators, HODs etc for their tireless and
timeless support and service to the growth of SE CORPORATION

 The entire staff of SE CORPORATION nationwide who with very brief notice,
sure the importance of uniting for a common goal. ^

 To the staff that had to spend sleepless nights to compile questions, solve them
and do the write-ups for these documents. The success of the users of this book is your
true and durable reward.

 To school administrators in various ways they facilitate our dream of seeing


more and more students in professional schools.

 We are also immensely grateful to institutions who have supported SE


CORPORATION in its activities along the year

 The students who have heeded our advice in attending the SE CORP. preparatory
programs and using the guide as Recommended.

 The list goes on and on ...right to you reading this if you haven’t been cited
already above.

OSCAR MOTASSI

M.D- Fmsp Douala

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Contents
ESSEC 2020 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1
PREFACE ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3
CONTENTS -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 4
SECTION A: CLASS REMINDER---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7
PART 1: GENERAL KNOWLEDGE ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7
CHAP 1: METHODOLOGY OF GENERAL KNOWLEDGE AND ECONOMIC ESSAY SUBJECTS -------- 8
I. OUTLINES OF THE SUBJECT ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8
A. The background ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8
1. The general idea ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8
2. The titles of the parties --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 9
3. Secondary ideas ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 9
B. Form ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 9
1. The style -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 9
2. Punctuation--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 10
3. The presentation of the copy------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 10
II. Structure of the assignment ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 10
A. The General Introduction ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 10
1. The General Context of the Topic ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 10
2. The interest of the subject ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 11
3. Formulation of the problem -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 11
4. Announcement of the main lines of analysis ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 12
B. THE BODY OF THE DUTY ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 12
C. The General Conclusion------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 12
III. Tips to make a difference -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14
IV. Typology of essay topics--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 15
A. Concept subjects--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 15
B. The Issue Topics -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 15
C. Subjects with real notions ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 16
D. Subjects with quotation------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 16
E. Case studies -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 16
F. Training------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 17
CAHP 2: SOME THEMATIC AREAS CURRENT ----------------------------------------------------------------- 19
I. Theme 1: International Economic Activities ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 19
A. The nature of international economic relations --------------------------------------------------------------------- 19
1. Movement of people ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 19
2. Trade in goods ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 19
3. Trade in goods ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 19
4. Trade in goods ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 19
5. Exchanges of information and technology --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 19
B. Actors in international economic relations -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 19
1. States ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 20
2. International organizations --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 20
II. Theme 2: A new approach to development ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 20
A. Development in question ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 20
1. Conceptual classification ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 21
2. Poverty, a multidimensional concept --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 21
B. Solutions against poverty ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 23

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1. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The old solutions


---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 23
2. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- New solutions
26
III. WTO and financial crisis -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 27
A. World Trade Organization --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 27
1. the objectives of the WTO --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 27
2. Differences between the WTO and the GATT ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 27
3. Assessment of the WTO------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 27
B. Africa's Global Crisis: What Commitments? ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 28
C. WTO AND FINANCIAL CRISIS ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 29
IV. Report of the brainstorming panel on the international financial and economic crisis in Cameroon ------------ 31
A. An assessment of the impact of the international financial crisis on the Cameroonian economy -------- 31
1. Effects on the financial system ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 32
2. Effects on the evolution of capital flows ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 32
3. The effects on the productive system --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 32
4. The effects on foreign trade -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 33
5. Effects on public finances ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 33
B. Proposals for measures to be taken to mitigate the effects of the financial and economic crisis in Cameroon
33
1. The implementation of structural investments and the linking to the infrastructure cycle -------------------- 33
2. The effective implementation of sectorial policies ----------------------------------------------------------------- 34
i. The agricultural sector ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 35
ii. The forestry sector --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 35
iii. The Building and Public Works sector --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 36
3. Development of human resources, scientific and technological research --------------------------------------- 36
4. Implementation of financing policy ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 37
5. Public funds and Budgetary Policy ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 38
6. Institutions and Governance ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 39
7. Attractiveness of foreign direct investment -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 39
PART 2: MATHEMATICS COURSES------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 41
CHAP 1: Probability reminders -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 41
I. Probabilistic vocabulary --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 41
II. Probability analysis --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 42
A. Probability of an event-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 42
B. Conditional probabilities ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 42
C. Independence ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 43
III. Random Variables (RV) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 43
A. Definition and law of probability ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 44
B. Mathematical expectation, variance and standard deviation ------------------------------------------------------ 44
C. Binomial law ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 45
1. Bernouilli proof---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 45
2. Bernouillian scheme ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 45
IV. Practice Research Exercise ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 45
CHAP 2: SEQUENCES AND SERIES ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 47
I. Global study of a numerical sequence ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 47
A. Definition of a numerical sequence ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 47
B. Direction of variation of a numerical sequence --------------------------------------------------------------------- 47
C. Notion of boundaries in sequences ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 48
D. Convergence of a numerical sequence ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 48
E. Specific numerical sequence ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 48
1. Arithmetic Sequences--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 48
II. Geometric sequences ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 51
III. Some training exercises (It's up to you!!!!) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 51
CHAP 3: REMINDERS ON FUNCTIONS -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 53
I. LIMITS ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 53
A.LIMITS ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 53
B.Infinite branches --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 56
II. Continuity -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 57
III. Derivability ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 58
A. Derivative and Sense of Variation ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 58
• Relative position of a curve and a line ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 59

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B. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Study of Functions


---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 59
A. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Steps for studying a function
59
Chapter 4: INTEGRATION ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 61
I. Usual integrals--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 61
II. Properties of integration --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 61
III. Average value --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 62
IV. Integration by parts --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 62

SECTION B: PAST QUESTION AND CORRECTION ------------------------------------------------------------ 63


PART 1: GENERAL KNOWLEDGE -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 63
PAST QUESTION ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 63
Subject General Culture DESC 2010 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 63
Subject General Culture DESC 2012 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 64
Subject General Culture DESC 2013 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 64
Subject General Culture DESC 2014 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 64
Subject General Culture DESC 2015 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 64
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CORRECTION ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 64
Subject General Culture DESC 2010 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 64
Subject General Culture DESC 2012 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 68
Subject General Culture DESC 2013 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 70
Subject General Culture DESC 2014 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 72
PART 2: ECONOMIC ESSAY ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 75
PAST QUESTION ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 75
Subject of Economic Essay 2010--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 75
Subject of Economic Essay 2011--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 75
Subject of Economic Essay 2012--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 75
Subject of Economic Essay 2013--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 75
Subject of Economic Essay 2014--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 76
ECONOMIC ESSAY CORRECTION -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 76
Subject of Economic Essay 2010--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 76
Subject of Economic Essay 2011--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 77

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SECTION A:
CLASS
REMINDER
PART 1: GENERAL KNOWLEDGE

The writing methodology is undeniably the key to success in the economic and general culture essay
tests. As interesting as it is to have vast knowledge on a given subject, it is advantageous in a
competitive context to stand out from the crowd by a harmonious combination of knowledge.
We analyze the methodology in four (04) sections:

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 The contours of the assignment.


 The structure of the assignment.
 Tips to make a difference.
 The different types of subjects.

CHAP 1: METHODOLOGY OF GENERAL


KNOWLEDGE AND ECONOMIC ESSAY
SUBJECTS

I. OUTLINES OF THE SUBJECT


Before taking the economics or general knowledge test, the candidate should be aware that two criteria
are used to mark it:
 The substance or content of the assignment (this is the central issue of the assignment).
 The form or structure of the assignment.

A. The background
It refers to the content of the assignment, i.e. the set of ideas that the candidate develops throughout
his analysis. It is the whole of the conceptual richness highlighted by the candidate in his
argumentation and he understands:

 The general idea.


 The titles of the parts of the assignment

Note
The background is evaluated on a 14 out of 20 point basis.
As an illustration we have the subject:
Test subject
What do you think of the privatization of public sector companies in Cameroon?

1. The general idea


This is the cornerstone of the task, i.e. the central problem, the question that we will try to answer
throughout our analysis. It is determined by asking the following question: What am I being asked to
show?

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For the test subject, the general idea will be: does the privatization process in
Cameroon allow to reach the expected objectives? Or, alternatively: What is the
impact of the privatization process on socio-economic development?

2. The titles of the parties


They refer to the main lines of our reasoning and are closely linked to the general idea. They may
diverge or converge depending on the orientation of the topic and are a compilation of secondary ideas
grouped according to their similarity. For our illustrative example, we have:

 The characteristic features of privatization.


 Real scope of privatization in Cameroon.

3. Secondary ideas
These are the ideas explained by the candidate within the paragraphs of the body of work. They are the
subdivisions of the titles of the parts.
The secondary idea is usually formulated in the form of an affirmative sentence and sometimes in the
form of a question.
In our control example, secondary ideas may be:
I.1 The stakes of privatization.
I.2 the realities of privatization in Cameroon.
II.1 the positive effects
II.2 Negative effects.
Issues, realities, positive and negative effects are secondary ideas. They can be broken down into more
detailed secondary ideas.
Be careful!!!!
All these titles should be underlined.

B. Form
The interest of the form lies in the sense that it is not enough to have more arguments before a given
subject, it is also necessary to organize them in a coherent and logical way. The form is evaluated on
the basis of 6 points out of 20 and integrates the following aspects:
 The style.
 Punctuation.
 The presentation of the copy

1. The style
It refers to the way in which the candidate expresses his or her ideas. Therefore, it is recommended to
the latter:
To construct short sentences, preferably indicative.
Adopt a simple and neutral style.

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Refrain from colloquial and vulgar language.


To avoid expressing oneself with an air of grandiloquence
Avoid neologisms, avoid impressing the proofreader
To distance oneself from monotony, repetition, the same transition formulas, it gives the
image of a candidate who is short of ideas and poor in language.

2. Punctuation
It is the tool that enhances the reading and understanding of the assignment. It allows for the orderly
arrangement of words within a sentence or paragraph. The different punctuation marks must be
respected in order to make the assignment an assembly of ideas with coherence and meaning.

3. The presentation of the copy


It is all the more important as the competition is very selective and mobilizes several candidates. A
good presentation of one's assignment is a guarantee of maximizing one's chances. For that, it is
important:
? To write your paper legibly.
? To carefully check the spelling of words, particularly the agreements of past participants, the dots on
the "i" and "j".
? To avoid erasures, especially at the introduction and conclusion, the use of the corrector, dashes,
asterisks because they can appear as distinctive signs for the corrector.
? To underline the titles of books and magazines.
? To write the first letter of the cities, countries or persons with a capital letter. To write in a spacious
and airy way, trying to leave a blank space between the three (03) parts of the assignment
(introduction, development, and conclusion).
? Once the outlines of the assignment have been defined, we will focus on the actual architecture of
our assignment.

II. Structure of the assignment


Here it is a matter of identifying the details that should be placed in the general introduction, in the
body of the paper and in the general conclusion.

A. The General Introduction


This is the part of the assignment that allows the corrector to get an idea of the candidate's reasoning.
A good introduction to the essay contains four essential subdivisions.

1. The General Context of the Topic


It is a matter of bringing the subject. Its role is to situate the phenomenon described in the subject in its
historical or thematic context. There are three (03) methods of presentation of the general context of
the subject, namely:

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The definition of the terms of the subject


This method is effective when the subject is not long. Subject terms are defined
according to their contextual, not lexical, meaning.
Practical case
Privatization can be defined as the operation by which the State partially or totally disengages itself
from its sectors of the economy in favor of the private sector.
The funnel method
This method would like to start from a general point before leading to the key concept of the subject.
However, one must avoid being too evasive by starting from a general framework that has nothing to
do with the contextual phenomenon in the subject.
Practical case
The great cry that the developing countries experienced in the 1980s revealed several dysfunctions in
their economies. Among these distortions, the problem of the management of public sector enterprises
is at the heart of the debates: some authors do not hesitate to propose privatization as a way to revive
these enterprises.
The quotation method
Very little used by the candidates, this method requires a good mastery of the quotation, its meaning
and possibly the name of its author.
Practical case
"The problem of African economies is the almost omnipresence of the state. It's embarrassing to see a
state everywhere: the best thing for it would be to give free rein to the private sector," said an IMF
economist.
After having set the general context, we can now give the interest of the subject.

2. The interest of the subject


It is the actualization of the duty. At this level, an attempt is made to identify the relevance of the
subject in relation to the surrounding economic environment.
Case Study
The privatization process is being implemented in a context of crisis under pressure from donors
through S.A.P. (Structural Adjustment Programs). This was aimed at restoring sustainable economic
growth in the countries concerned.

3. Formulation of the problem


Is the general idea of duty It is very often in the form of a question, but very rarely in the form of a
declarative sentence. The central problem may give rise to other subsidiary questions that refer to the
major parts of the duty.
Practical case
What is the real impact (or scope) of privatizations on the socio-economic well-being of people in
Cameroon? With regard to the privatizations carried out, are the expected effects achieved?

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4. Announcement of the main lines of analysis


This is the announcement of the plan. We highlight the main points of our argument.
These are the titles of the parts of the body of duty. A good economic essay has at least two parts,
rarely three (03).
Here are the formulas for stating the plan:
For converging topics
To answer the question posed, it is up to us on the one hand to examine (...) and on the other
hand to analyses
At first, our study will focus on (...) then we will underline (...) For divergent subjects
On analysis, it would be appropriate to see (...) however a thorough examination would allow (...).
It should also be noted that there is no perfect or universal formula for announcing the plan. It is up to
the candidate to choose the most convincing formula.
Case study
To answer the question posed, it is up to us to examine first of all the stakes of privatization in
Cameroon (I). Then, we will assess its implications on the economy as a whole (II).
Note
The introduction is in one paragraph.

B. THE BODY OF THE DUTY


It is the place where the candidate proves himself in the organization, arrangement and development of
ideas. A good body of work contains two (02) parts (I and II) which can be in two (O2) sub-parts (A
and B) all underlined. Moving from part (I) to part (II) or from sub-part (A) to sub-part (B) involves
small introductions and transactions.
The first part (I) is generally the presentation of the different contours of the phenomenon described in
the subject.
In the second part (II), it is most of the time a question of updating the subject in a pragmatic way by
noting its limits and its scope (i.e. it is generally in the second part that the problem is solved).
To move from one part to another or from one sub-part to another, a transition is made. Transitions
include:
A partial conclusion including the two- or three-line summary of the first part or sub-part.
The announcement of the title of the next part or sub-part. It should not exceed three (03)
lines.
The transition makes the assignment a coherent whole linking the general introduction to the general
conclusion.
This avoids making the assignment a juxtaposition of paragraphs without any link between them.

C. The General Conclusion


It recapitulates or summarizes all the reasoning constructed since the general introduction and
developed in the body of the paper. The general conclusion is not a catch-all where one pours out all
that one could not or could not say in the body of the duty by repetitions, it is not a place where one

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paraphrases the body of the duty by repetitions. A good general conclusion of the
economic dissertation is written in a single paragraph of about fifteen (15) lines. It
should include:
A reminder of the general idea and the titles of the parts of the body of the assignment (secondary
ideas only).
The interest of the subject (historical, economic, social, cultural,) by the formulation of suggestions to
improve the problem posed.
The opening of the discussion towards new horizons. This part is not compulsory.
A few words to announce the general conclusion:
Ultimately,
In summary,
At the end of our analysis, study, work, etc., ...
In view of all the above,
All in all,
Case Study
At the end of our analysis, the scope of the privatization phenomenon emerges. This scope allowed us
to analyze the stakes and realities of privatization in Cameroon on the one hand, and on the other hand
its effects on the socio-economic well-being of Cameroonians. This subject resurrects the debate on
the place of the State in the economy. In the light of the pitfalls that prevent privatization from
unraveling its virtuous effects on the national economy, we find that there is an urgent need to rethink
the current logic by adapting it to the socio-economic realities of Cameroon. Thus, feasibility studies
adequate to the accompanying measures aiming at the respect of the specifications and important
details must be taken into account.
On the international level
Given the scale of the disaster, the World Bank increased its aid by 54% in 2009, or $60 billion for
countries facing difficulties caused by the crisis. Three priorities have been assigned as destinations
for these funds, namely:
? Social protection programs for the most vulnerable populations.
? Maintenance of investments made in infrastructure.
? Support for small and medium enterprises and micro-finance.
At the political level
The crisis has highlighted the structural shortcomings of African countries. It has illustrated the utopia
of self-regulation by the global market. It demonstrated in a masterly way that the "less state", the
credo of the Bretton Woods institutions for two decades, was a chimera. The years 2008 and 2009 are
characterized by a democratic resurgence in Africa, with:
? A manipulation of the Constitution to stay in power: in Cameroun, Niger, Gabon...
? Proven monarchical abuses (in Gabon and Togo; early 2010), in preparation (in Egypt, Libya and
Senegal), coups d'état (in Madagascar, Guinea and Mali recently).
At the national level

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Actions have been carried out with varying degrees of success or success against
corruption and for transparency.
The denunciation of this problem by political parties, NGOs and even the Churches, especially the
Catholic Church, has finally had some effect. The initial action of Transparency International must be
mentioned to be complete. Thus, in 2006 the President of the Republic decided to launch "Operation
Sparrow hawk," which is intended to fight corruption. However, many Cameroonians believe that
"Operation Sparrow hawk" is not primarily aimed at fighting corruption, but rather at settling scores
within the clan that has ruled the country for the past fifty (50) years.
The existence of young unions and especially the strength and scope of corruption make union
struggles very difficult in Cameroon. Several struggles have been initiated by the workers.
Unfortunately, after a few days, the government or business leaders use corruption to divert the
struggle.
The latest dramatic example of this situation was the so-called "hunger riots" in February 2008. These
events, which resulted in the deaths of nearly 200 people according to various reliable civilian sources,
were part of a strike by cab drivers who wanted a reduction in the price of fuel. In fact, for several
months, life had become increasingly difficult for the poor; food, water, shelter, and food for the poor
had become more and more expensive.
Of basic necessities having become unaffordable. In addition, there was also a democratic demand for
the President of the Republic to renounce the constitutional manipulation that was to allow him to run
for the presidential election as many times as he wished, contrary to the constitutional provisions in
force since 1996.
The year of the fiftieth anniversary of the "independences" of African countries is an irrefutable proof
that the unity of Africa is an inescapable imperative without the achievement of which the
development and effective independence of African countries is impossible. The overall situation of
Africa and the situation of each African country, taken in isolation, clearly show, on the occasion of
this crisis, that the fate of African peoples is unique or identical (...)
For some, the dominant classes and strata of the so-called rich and developed countries, are the main
culprits of the global crisis from which African countries are suffering the consequences. The least that
can be expected from these countries is that they spontaneously propose to assume their
responsibilities in this crisis they have caused. For example, these countries could decide, not in a
spirit of generosity, but rather out of a concern for justice, to cancel the false debt of all the so-called
poor countries.
Today's world, as it is organized and as it functions, is nothing but a montage of injustice on all levels.
And the peoples who live in ever deeper misery have the right and the duty to revolt against this unjust
world order. This is the case of the African peoples and, in particular, the people of Cameroon.

III. Tips to make a difference


These tips can be summarized in 10 steps:
Step 1: Methodical reading of the subject: the subject is read by asking questions about the concepts (5
min).
Step 2: Explanation of the subject's key words in his or her own words according to the contextual and
not lexical meaning (15 min).

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Step 3: Reformulation of the subject in his or her own words for a better understanding
(5 min).
Step 4: Formulation of the central problem (general idea) in other words, asking the question "what am
I being asked to show? ».
Step 5: Search for ideas (to build the plan, i.e. the main and secondary ideas) in the draft. They are
recorded in the form of a nominal sentence. (40 min).
Step 6: Develop the detailed plan with clear and precise examples. This is the architecture of the body
of work (30 min).
Step 7: Writing the general introduction to the draft (25 min).
Step 8: Writing the general conclusion to the draft (15 min)
Step 9: Cleaning up the assignment (1h 30 min).
Step 10: Proofreading and self-correction.
The economic, specialty or general culture essay assignment must answer 3 fundamental questions:
 What are they?
 What? How?
 Why? Relates to the description of the subject.
 The how refers to the way in which the candidate expresses his or her ideas.
 Finally, the why relates to the pragmatism of the theoretical and descriptive candidate to
examine the reality of the phenomenon in everyday life (refers to the interest, the actualization
of the subject)
 The candidate must adopt the following approach to a subject:
 Present the contours of the phenomenon to be analyzed (the characteristic foundations.
 Criticize the phenomenon (express reservations).
 Propose solutions to improve the problems posed.

IV. Typology of essay topics


Four types of subjects are generally proposed in an economics or general knowledge test.

A. Concept subjects
These are simply worded topics that focus on specific concepts. For example: DSCE, privatization,
agro-pastoral competition, CEMAC, MIRAP, compulsory borrowing, IPPTE, PAS, ...
These subjects are dangerous in that they should not be treated in a descriptive or evasive way. In
other words, the candidate must show a coherent organization of his knowledge. An example of a plan
that may be appropriate for this type of topic is the following:
 The main characteristics of the concept.
 The issues or implications of the concept.

B. The Issue Topics


This type of subject requires the candidate to have a thorough understanding of the phenomenon
exposed and the meaning of the question asked. For this reason, the candidate must discern the
following wordings:

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? What do you think of...? Means what reflection do you...? Are you of the opinion
that... ?
? Comment (highlight strengths and weaknesses).
? Discuss: Prove the opposite.
? Justify (illustrate, prove).
Note
These topics have the same outline as the previous types.

C. Subjects with real notions


These topics focus on two concepts linked by a conjunction of inclusive (and) or exclusive (or)
coordination.
For topics linked by "and", you should look for:
A comparison:
? Privatization and nationalization;
? Bond issue and financial assistance from international donors.
Concepts that complement each other? MDGs and the fight against poverty; ? DSCE and emergence.
With regard to the concepts linked by "or", it is a question of arbitrating between the two notions:
Bond issue or external financing of the economy.

Example of a development plan


I. Presentation of concepts (phenomena)
A. Privatization.
B. Nationalization.
II. Comparative study of phenomena A. Resemblances (convergences).
B. Dissemblance.
This comparison is carried out on several institutional and socioeconomic levels.

D. Subjects with quotation


Candidates are asked here to react to an author's point of view or thought. There are two ways in
which the candidate's attention should be sought:
? Understanding the author's thought by reformulating it in his or her own words.
? ? Understanding the question or wording accompanying the quotation.

E. Case studies
Case study 1
How do you feel about the impending recruitment of 25,000 young people to the public service?
Case Study 2

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Do developing countries have an interest in accelerating their openness to international


capital flows?
Case study 3
What do you think of the bond issued by the State of Cameroon in 2010?

F. Training
Topic 1
The news lately has been presenting us with the primordial role played by the international community
in the restoration of democracy in some African states. Do you think that this intervention will reduce
the sovereignty of our States?
Correction
Issue
In view of the recent conflicts in Africa, what is the impact of international interference on the
autonomy of African states?
I. The strategic stakes of the major powers in Africa
A. On the socio-political level: APE B. On the economic level: PAS, HIPC
II. The Effects of Great Power Interference in Africa
A. Negative Effects
B. Positive effects
Development illustration
International relations are the various types of relationships that the actors of the international
community maintain among themselves while respecting a certain number of pre-established rules.
International organizations with a supranational status, ensure the respect of its established principles
and can intervene in case of violation of fundamental human rights in a country. However, Africa
seems to be the continent where such interference is notable. Thus, in view of the current events in
Ivory Coast and Libya, can it be affirmed that the interference of the international community
constitutes a threat to the autonomy of our States? An adequate answer to this question obliges us to
analyze first of all the geostrategic stakes of the major power stations in Africa (1) in order to
subsequently take up the effects of this interference on the sovereignty of our States.
(2).

Topic 2
What do you think of the imminent recruitment of 25,000 young people into public office?
Correction
Issue
With regard to the process of direct integration of young people in the administrative functions of the
State, are the expected effects being achieved?
Drafting plan
I. Basis/generality on recruitment

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A. Analysis of the recruitment process


1. Forms of recruitment (direct/indirect)
2. Specifics of the 2011 recruitment
B. Recruitment conditions
II. Recruitment: A Government Strategy to Meet the MDGs
A. Contributions
B. The Limits
Development illustration
In his work on the search for balance in an economic policy, Nicolas KALDOR (1908-1986)
suggested the following four elements: growth, external balance, price stability and employment.
When one of these variables is not satisfied, we end up with an imbalance that the state must
imperatively correct.
Topic 2
How do you feel about the impending recruitment of 25,000 young people to the public service?

Correction
Issue
With regard to the process of direct integration of young people in the administrative functions of the
State, are the expected effects being achieved?
Drafting plan
I. Basis/generality on recruitment
A. Analysis of the recruitment process
1. Forms of recruitment (direct/indirect)
2. Specifics of the 2011 recruitment
B. Recruitment conditions
II. Recruitment: A Government Strategy to Meet the MDGs
A. Contributions
B. The Limits
Development illustration
In his work on the search for balance in an economic policy, Nicolas KALDOR (1908-1986)
suggested the following four elements: growth, external balance, price stability and employment.
When one of these variables is not satisfied, we end up with an imbalance that the state must
imperatively correct. Since reaching its completion point in 2006, Cameroon has undertaken numerous
reforms both at the macroeconomic and structural levels. This has had no real impact on the well-
being of the population. As one of the strong measures to curb the unemployment problem is to
promote a framework conducive to the development of private enterprises, it seems necessary to study

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the path adapted by the public authorities, which consists in integrating 25,000 young
people into its organs. With regard to this process of direct integration into
administrative functions, will the expected effects be achieved? This preoccupation of
recruitment before understanding the contribution of this policy as a crucial element in the Millennium
Development Goals.

CAHP 2: SOME THEMATIC AREAS CURRENT

I. Theme 1: International Economic Activities

A. The nature of international economic relations


1. Movement of people
They constitute the migratory flows observed almost everywhere in the world. These people who
travel are sometimes tourists, researchers, unemployed people, refugees...

2. Trade in goods
These may be primary goods or commodities (cocoa, coffee, bananas, maize, etc.), trade in
manufactured goods (vehicles, machines, computers, etc.).

3. Trade in goods
The service sector is booming worldwide: banking services (SGBC, UBA, and CBC), insurance
(AXA, ACTIVA), tourist transport, telecommunications (ORANGE, MTN ...).

4. Trade in goods
Capital moves from one part of the world to another in search of high returns (these capital exchanges
are facilitated by the liberalization of the economy). This increased mobility is facilitated by the
process of liberalization and the "three D's" rule (deregulation, deregulation, denationalization).
 Deregulation: movement to lighten and abolish the legal rules governing economic activity.
 Denationalization: privatization, abolition of the nationality of enterprises. Operations of
transfer of the capital of a public company to private shareholders.
 Deregulation: movement to reduce state intervention in the economy.

5. Exchanges of information and technology


These exchanges cover the transfer of knowledge, cultures, TV program technologies, etc.

B. Actors in international economic relations


These are:
Households.
Companies.
States.

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1. States
Developed countries
These are developed or industrialized countries that are economically, financially and technologically
powerful (high GDP). These countries are in the northern hemisphere and belong to North America
(USA, CANADA), Western Europe (EU) and Asia (Japan).
Emerging or newly industrialized countries
These are countries that represent a high growth potential at a given time (high GDP growth rate), a
fairly significant capital absorption capacity and a very high degree of openness in world trade.
Among these countries, we have the countries of Asia (Malaysia, India, and Philippines), Latin
America (Argentina, Brazil) and Africa (South Africa). The very advanced liberation of their
economies exposes them to international economic shocks (currency fluctuations, capital volatility,
and financial crises (as in the case of the 2008 financial crisis)).
Middle-income countries
These are countries with a relatively average GDP per capita. They are generally dependent on farm
incomes based on a few commodities. They are countries with a very rich subsoil (Kuwait, Libya,
Saudi Arabia, and Nigeria). The extroversion of the economy of these countries makes them
dependent on variations in demand on the world market characterized by the recurrent deterioration of
the terms of trade.
Low-income or least developed countries
These countries have a very low GDP per capita (population living on less than US$1 per day). Most
of these countries are generally located in Sub-Saharan Africa. Their economies are mainly based on
one or two agricultural products. Socio-economic living conditions are deplorable and commercial,
heavily indebted to developed countries.

2. International organizations
These are public or private organizations (NGOs) created with the aim of converging and coordinating
policy in various fields (economic, political, monetary, humanitarian, etc.) and achieving global
welfare.
Public IOs have a supranational status and their decisions apply to all Member States. Among these
IOs we have the IMF and the World Bank, which are of a monetary nature, and the WTO and the
UNCCD, which are of a commercial nature.

II. Theme 2: A new approach to development


Significantly improving the socio-political and economic well-being of the population remains one of
the major and constant concerns of the authorities in the country. Several strategies can be used to
achieve this goal. In the past, some of these mechanisms have been applied without much
effectiveness in developing countries. Nowadays, faced with the increase in poverty in the world, we
are wondering how to overcome this dreaded scourge.

A. Development in question

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1. Conceptual classification
Economic growth
Growth reflects a sustainable increase in an economic performance indicator. GDP and GNP are the
most widely used indicators.
Expansion refers to the rise of one or more aggregates over a short period of time. Recession and
economic crisis
Recession is the slowdown or decline in economic activity over a relatively short period of time. This
decline may be due to internal shocks: (tax increases, inflation, natural disasters) or external shocks
(extraversion of the economy, de-dependence of commercial market prices, exchange rate volatility,
rising oil prices, etc.).
The economic crisis is the set of disruptions and dysfunctions that affect the structures of an economy
at a given moment and which leads to the slowing down of economic activity and the deterioration of
the well-being of citizens. An economic crisis as well as recessions are also the result of both internal
and external phenomena.
Development and underdevelopment
Development is the modification of economic and social structures to improve people's well-being in
the long term.
Underdevelopment is a concept describing a situation in which some countries are considered
structurally inferior to others in terms of socio-economics, economic-financial, cultural, and
infrastructural and other aspects...

2. Poverty, a multidimensional concept


The different forms of poverty
On the economic level (monetary or absolute poverty)
This poverty is illustrated by the amount of income per capita. The narrowness of the UN dream leads
to the non-existence of savings, which in turn leads to insignificant investments and low overall
production: these are the characteristics of poor countries. ? On the socio-political and cultural level
At this level we will distinguish several aspects:
♣ The demographic aspect
The birth rate is too high in poor countries and this demographic explosion raises problems that are
difficult to solve (lack of social housing, over-population of urban areas, rural exodus, hunger...),
illiteracy, promiscuity in the cities, lack of essential resources and basic social services, inadequate
health services, etc.).
♣ The cultural aspect
The poor generally have a retrograde mentality that is incompatible with progress. They deny their
own cultural values and prefer Western culture, which they consider to be the reference point
(clothing, language, music). The poor feel marginalized, excluded from the sphere of important
decisions that concern them. In the field of education and health, there is a low literacy rate,
insufficient school equipment and adapted teaching methods, and literacy training affects mainly
women and young people. Similarly, health services are deplorable, with one doctor for every 100
people, and the persistence of endemic (cholera, malaria) and pandemic (AIDS) diseases. In the
political sphere, democracy is a process that varies from country to country. Moreover, in most poor

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countries, especially in Africa, there are common features, namely: coups d'état,
changes in the constitution, longevity in power and the rights of citizens most often
violated. ? Poverty in terms of infrastructure
The countries are characterized by a glaring deficit in terms of infrastructure reserves.
♣ Communication infrastructures are insufficient, poorly exploited and over-exploited (e.g. the Dla-
Ydé road, the bridge over the Wouri).
♣ Telecommunications infrastructures are generally centered in the large cities.
♣ Maritime and airport infrastructures are insufficient and of poor quality.
Measuring poverty
 The quantitative approach
It is used by the Bretton Woods institutions (international donors, i.e. WB and IMF) to assess a
country's level of wealth and assumes equality of purchasing power between countries on all
continents. The reference indicator used here is GDP, which makes it possible to classify countries
(rich or developed countries with too high a per capita income, emerging countries with an average
and increasing per capita income, the least developed countries with a low per capita income,
generally less than a dollar).
The limitation of these indicators is due to the fact that they reduce the classification of the standard of
living to the monetary factor alone and therefore do not take into account other social parameters.
 The qualitative approach
This is an approach developed by UNDP. It is more realistic than the previous one and the main
indicator used is the HDI (Human Development Index). The HDI is based on a number of parameters
including GDP, life expectancy, access to basic social services (health, education, etc.) and the
participation of the population in the management of affairs.
The causes of poverty
 Poverty as a natural phenomenon
According to this thesis, poverty is due to factors such as: rugged terrain (desert, poor and lateritic
soils, unproductive soils, poor subsoil’s...), retrograde mentality, corruption, favoritism,
authoritarianism...
 Poverty, a delay in the development process
This vision emphasizes development as a process comprising several stages:
According to W. Rostow, one must start from the traditional society and then move on to take-off and
maturity and finally the era of high mass consumption.
For Colin CLARK, one must go through specialization in the primary sector as the first stage, then
specialization in the secondary sector as the second stage and specialization in the tertiary or service
sector as the third stage.
Poverty as a consequence of development has been the subject of many studies. So-called
structuralism economists such as François PERROUX, Professor Bruno BEKOLO EBE,
Emmanuel ARRIGHI, and SAMIR AMIN explain poverty as resulting from the unequal and
enslaving mechanisms of the world economy. Rich countries use various strategies to keep poor

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countries in poverty (establishment of democracy and good governance, fight against


poverty, protection of human rights, NGOs, internet through social networks such as
Skype, Facebook).
♣ François PERROUX
For him, the capitalist ideology of the rich countries leads to a commercial, financial, technological
and political dependence of the poor countries so that the latter cannot take care of themselves (e.g.
through SAPs).
♣ Emmanuel ARRIGHI
He believes that the multiple economic relationships between rich and poor countries are characterized
by unequal trade. The products of poor countries (raw materials, commodities) are subject to irregular
fluctuations in their prices on the world market. The recurrent fall in their already low prices leads to a
deterioration in the terms of trade while the prices of products from rich countries are constant or
rising.
♣ SAMIR AMIN
He believes that REIs are marked by relationships between two poles (the middle) and the periphery.
The center represented by developed countries and the periphery by developing countries. It is the
middle that dictates the law and the path to be followed by the periphery and sometimes the center or
the middle, influencing decisions within international organizations.
♣ Bruno BEKOLO EBE
Finally this author, the relations between the DPs and the DCs are governed by a relationship of "
destructuration -restructuration", obliging the DCs to leave aside their own logic of development
(destructuration) in order to conform to the requirements of the economies of the DPs (restructuring).
The corollary is the extroversion of the economies of the DCs, the loss of their economic sovereignty
obliges them to support the vision of the DCs.

B. Solutions against poverty


A multitude of solutions have been devised for centuries to combat poverty in all its forms in the
world in general and in Africa in particular. It is from this perspective that we will analyze old
solutions on the one hand, and new solutions for ending the crisis in Africa on the other.

1. The old solutions


They include:
a. Economic planning
This socialist-like model dominated the post-independence period until the mid-1980s in most African
countries. Planning was for a country to project on a three or five-year basis the macroeconomic
development objectives in the light of available natural, human and financial resources. The state
played a central role through the creation of large enterprises and basic infrastructure to underpin
economic development.
In spite of the good results obtained with planning and because of the economic crisis of the 1980s,
this model was severely criticized and denounced by the IMF and the WB, which at the same time
proposed a structural adjustment program as an alternative.
b. ACP-EU cooperation agreements

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c. The Lagos Plan of Action


d. Structural Adjustment Programs (SAPs)
In order to correct the dysfunctions that affected the economies of developing countries as a result of
the great crisis of the 1980s, the Bretton Woods institutions designed and put in place plans to restore
macroeconomic balances at both the external and internal levels. This with a view to putting the
economies of developing countries back on the path of sustainable growth. This set of policy measures
is summarized under the acronym of SAPs, the DCs benefit from financial assistance (loans) from
multilateral (IMF, WB, ADB, EU, ...), bilateral (France CHINA) and commercial (commercial banks
and private financial institutions) donors.
The context in which SPAs are drawn up
? The practical foundations of SIPs
The P.A.S have been proposed and applied in a context of economic crisis with diverse origins.
 the endogenous/internal causes of the crisis in the 1980s
 Strong government interference in the economy. This interference has led to mismanagement
of economic affairs (embezzlement, corruption, favoritism, etc.).
 A disjointed economy (until today there is a juxtaposition between the primary, secondary and
tertiary sectors).
 A plethora of civil servants with very high salaries in relation to the real level of economic
activity.
 Administered price systems that distort competition and prevent competitiveness between
enterprises.
 Raising of the currency.
 Strong extroversion of the economy (mainly outward-looking economy). I Exogenous causes:
external
 Difficulties in repaying the increasingly heavy and burdensome external debt.
 Deterioration in terms of trade (falling prices of export products on the world market).
 The theoretical foundations of P.A.S.
 The predominance of liberal thinking.
 It is characterized by the predominance of the private sector and the liberalization of the
economy.
 The monetary approach to the balance of payments.
 This approach was developed by JOHN POLAK, who believes that the origin of the economic
problems of developing countries is the excess of monetary creation which results in an
increase in domestic demand.
 The approach in terms of absorptive capacity.
 It is developed by SIDNEY ALEXANDER and states that the economic problems of
developing countries result from the very high absorption capacity of economic agents. The
immediate corollary is excess domestic demand, which pushes agents to import to compensate
for the excess domestic demand.
Mechanisms for the deployment of the S.A.P.s
They follow two basic logics:
 Macroeconomic stabilization
It consists in restoring the major macroeconomic balances:
I Reducing public spending

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Fiscal austerity is applied in the countries concerned, which consists of reducing


public consumption (salaries, subsidies and transfers). These measures are summarized
in a document signed by the countries concerned and referred to as a "letter of intent".
I reducing the money supply in circulation
This is the strict control of credit for the increase of its cost (direct interest rate) or the decrease of the
quantity of money. Stabilization aims to encourage good management of the economy and to generate
domestic savings that would boost investment thanks to profound structural reforms.
 Structural reforms

 Rehabilitation of public enterprises


It consists of the reorganization of public and semi-public companies. This aims to enable the
performance of the very often mediocre results of these companies. It is from this perspective that
deprivation is the linchpin of SAPs.
 Reforms of the financial subject
In practice, it translates into the liquidation of failing financial institutions, the modernization of means
of payment and a framework favorable to direct finance (disintermediation and financial deregulation
with the creation of financial markets).
 Tax reform
It consists of the adoption of a flexible or rigorous tax regime according to the wishes of the public
authorities.
 Industrial reforms
The aim here is to reduce the negative effects of administrative pricing, to simplify administrative
procedures in order to give the private sector the necessary confidence in the reality of sustainable
growth.
 Devaluation
It is a deliberate and official decision by the monetary authorities to change the parity of the national
currency downward in relation to the numeration. It thus defers depreciation, which is the loss of value
of the currency on the foreign exchange market due to speculation. Devaluation has two objectives:
X The reduction of the trend has imported too much.
X The stimulation of exports.
Relevance of the implementation of the P.A.S.
 The limits of the P.A.S
A dogmatic and static vision of the economy
The P.A.S were adopted in a crisis situation without taking into account the specificities of each
country. They have been applied in a similar way to solve all the ills in poor countries.
The application of the P.A.S. is based on the trilogy: stabilization, deprivation, liberation, commonly
known as the Washington Convention.
A short time horizon

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The P.A.S. are generally on the short term (03) three years and only insist on the
correction of macroeconomic imbalances.
Neglect of the social aspect
The primary purpose of P.A.S. is the restoration of internal and external imbalances. This vision
relegates the well-being of the populations concerned to second place. As shown by the waves of
cutbacks observed in Cameroon in the 1990s, the fall in salaries, unemployment, etc., has led to a
decline in the number of people living in poverty.
An uncertain exchange rate policy
Devaluation is practiced when the conditions for success are not always guaranteed: dependence of the
economy on the outside and low reaction capacity of the production structures to the increase in
internal demand. This is the case with the devaluation of the FCFA on 12 January 1996.
Interference in the affairs of state
The ineffectiveness of tight monetary policy
The P.A.S. reforms
They result in a progressive consideration of social parameters.
Second-generation P.A.S.s
These are the improvements made to the P.A.S. through concessional financial assistance (flexible
loan conditions) and the targeting of social sectors. It is in this order that the IMF adjusted the
Structural Adjustment Facility (S.A.F.) in 1986, the Enhanced S.A.F. (E.S.F.) in 1993.
Third-generation S.A.P.s
The focus is on poverty alleviation, access to education and primary health care. The vector of these
programs is facilitated by the Poverty and Growth Reduction Facility set up in 1999 by the IMF to
finance the fight against poverty in very low income countries (HIPC).

2. New solutions
The Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) or Cotonou Agreements
These agreements, signed in June 2000, are an extension of the relations between the ACP (Africa
Caribbean Pacific) countries and those of the EU (European Union). They are spread over (20) twenty
years, revisable every five years. The central objective of these agreements is the fight against poverty,
sustainable development and the progressive integration of the ACP countries into the world economy.
In terms of innovation, the EPAs focus on:
? Strengthening the political dimension of the partnership.
? Enlargement (integration) has new civil society actors (associations, NGOs ...).
? The development of a trade regime compatible with the objectives of the WTO (abolition of customs
preferences, liberalization of the economy).
? The introduction of a more rational and performance-oriented aid management system.

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The EPAs cover economic, social and human development, regional integration and
cooperation. The EPA negotiations, based on the principle of reciprocity, are expected
to last until 2007 and enter into force in 2008.
In summary, we note that the EPAs mark a break with the old logic of ACP-EU cooperation based on
aid and trade preferences (in fact to meet the objectives of the WTO). The EPAs reflect a strategy of
anchoring the ACP countries to the new requirements of the global economic time (competitiveness
and over-liberalization of the economy).
Ten years (10) after their signatures, there has been timid progress in the negotiations. The latest
developments vary from country to country and from region to region. It is therefore deplorable that
Africans are moving in a dispersed row during the negotiations. And this state of affairs is likely to
further weaken African positions in their relations with others.

III. WTO and financial crisis

A. World Trade Organization


The WTO came into being at the end of the Uruguay Round, which began at Punta’s Del Este in 1990
and ended with the Marrakesh Accords (1994). It officially came into operation on 1 January 1995.

1. the objectives of the WTO


? Facilitating the harmonious expansion of international trade by removing barriers of all kinds.
? Creation of a multilateral framework for international trade.
? Continuation of the negotiations in force within GATT (General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade).
? The use of a settlement body of various so-called DSBs.
? The integration into the negotiations of areas hitherto unexplored by the GATT.

2. Differences between the WTO and the GATT


The WTO differs from the GATT on several levels:
? It is an institution in its own right with a permanent headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland.
? A general directorate with the Frenchman Pascal Lamy as its representative.
? A ministerial conference.
WTO decisions are taken by consensus. The WTO takes into account trade negotiations on goods,
services, but also intellectual property. Within the WTO there is a structure for settling trade disputes.

3. Assessment of the WTO


The positive points:
? Denunciation of the violation of the rules of the game of commerce.
? Resolution of many trade disputes by the DSB.

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The shortcomings of the WTO:


? The promotion of free trade as a solution to development is not universally shared.
The WTO is the vehicle par excellence for globalization. However, the latter is heavily criticized for
its harmful effects on developing countries.
? The discriminatory policy practiced by some countries is hindering the progress of negotiations. In
fact, some developed countries encourage the liberation of developing countries, and they are the first
to subsidies their producers, to intervene in times of crisis in the economy (this was the case in 2008,
during the financial crisis, which hit the West, particularly the USA and the countries of Western
Europe).
? The stalling of negotiations in certain areas such as agriculture jeopardizes the success of the rounds.

B. Africa's Global Crisis: What Commitments?


Although it is not at the origin of the multifaceted crises that are shaking the world, Africa is suffering
the most from their repercussions, with dramatic consequences in a continent that remains the most
affected by poverty in the world. For Samuel Mack-Tit, it is up to the continent's progressive political
parties to mobilize to fight together for the struggles that can ensure the continent's recovery and
development.
Now that the crisis has been acknowledged, before indicating the changes it is causing and how these
changes should be managed, it seems appropriate to us to discuss, at least in a few words, the origins
of this crisis.
The global crisis was preceded by a financial crisis that had been going on for some thirty years.
Without being solely responsible for this financial crisis, the American investment banks seem to have
had a heavy responsibility for it. Richard Fuld, the boss of the Lehmann Brother ("honorable old lady"
of the American investment banks, founded in 1850), by declaring the bankruptcy of his bank on
Sunday, 14 September 2008, suddenly recognized the extent of the financial crisis that was going to
develop and cause the global crisis in all sectors of the activity of countries and peoples. As can easily
be seen, African countries had no responsibility in triggering this crisis.
A global crisis
The crisis is global because it is financial, banking and economic. The dependence of Third World
countries in general, and African countries in particular, on developed countries leaves very little room
for autonomous action by these countries in this situation of global crisis. Worse, this dependence
makes them the main victims of the consequences.
This is how we note:
? The 5 to 10% drop in 2009 in demand for their export products due to the contraction of trade with
developed countries.
? A decrease in the GDP growth rate of sub-Saharan Africa from 5.2% in 2008 to 1.7% in 2009. This
indicates an increase in poverty, which already affects 51% of the African population, which has just
passed the one billion mark.
? The collapse in the price of raw materials with which Africa is bursting at the seams.
? The fall in private capital flows to Africa. These fell from $30 billion in 2007 to $13 billion in 2009.

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C. WTO AND FINANCIAL CRISIS


? A decrease in the transfer of African workers based abroad from their countries of
origin. In 2008, 15 million African migrant workers, 2/3 of them on the continent, contributed nearly
20 billion dollars in remittances to their countries of origin.
? The worsening threat of cuts in official development assistance from developed countries facing
recession. For example, France has reneged on its promise to allocate 0.51% of its gross national
income to development aid in 2010.
? An end to the illusion of hopes of achieving the Millennium Development Goals set by the UN in
2000, whose aim was to halve poverty and malnutrition by 2015.
? The increase in the fragility of African countries whose debt already absorbs 40% of their national
income on average.
In short, this global crisis, for which underdeveloped countries in general and African countries in
particular have no responsibility, is causing a political, economic and social crisis for them. The
growth dynamic has been broken by the global crisis for which Africa is in no way responsible. So
what can be done about it?
This global crisis whose origins are totally foreign to Africa has dramatic consequences for it. In order
to survive, because of this crisis, one African out of two has less than a dollar a day, or about 400 CFA
francs, while taking measures to deal with the consequences of this global crisis, it is advisable to try
to draw lessons from it.
At the international level
In view of the scale of the disaster, the World Bank increased its aid by 54% in 2009, i.e. 60 billion
dollars for countries facing difficulties caused by the crisis. Three priorities have been assigned as
destinations for these funds, namely:
Social protection programs for the most vulnerable populations.
Continued investment in infrastructure.
Support for small and medium-sized enterprises and micro-finance. On the political level: the crisis
has highlighted the structural shortcomings of African countries. It has illustrated the utopia of self-
regulation by the world market. It demonstrated in a masterly manner that "less state", the credo of the
Bretton Woods institutions for the past two decades, was a chimera. The years 2008 and 2009 are
characterized by the democratic backlash in Africa, with :
? Manipulation of the constitution to stay in power: in Cameroon, Niger, Gabon, etc.
? Monarchical abuses have been confirmed (in Gabon and Togo; early 2010), in preparation (in Egypt,
Libya and Senegal), coups d'états (in Madagascar, Guinea and Mali very recently).
At the national level in Cameroon
Actions have been carried out with varying degrees of happiness or success.
Against corruption and for transparency for a long time, the UPC, together with others, has
constantly sounded the alarm about corruption in our country. In December 1999, the UPC wrote to
the President of the Republic of Cameroon, Mr. Paul Biya, to express its concern about the problem
of corruption in Cameroon. In the same letter, the UPC made proposals on how to fight against this
corruption. The denunciation of this problem by political parties, NGOs and even churches, especially
the Catholic Church, has finally had some effect. Transparency International's initial action should be

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noted for completeness. Thus, in 2006, the President of the Republic, and the President
of the RDPC, the ruling political party, finally decided to launch 'Operation
Sparrowhawk', which is intended to fight corruption. Many Cameroonians believe that
"Operation Sparrowhawk" does not essentially have the fight against corruption as its objectives, but
rather the internal regulations of the clan that has ruled the country for fifty (50) years.
Trade union struggles: The existence of young trade unions and, above all, the strength and extent of
corruption make trade union struggles very difficult in Cameroon. Several struggles have been
initiated by the workers. Unfortunately, after a few days, the government or business leaders use
corruption to divert the struggle.
The last dramatic example of this situation was the so-called "hunger riots" in February 2008. These
events, which killed nearly 200 people according to various reliable civilian sources, were led by a
party of taxi drivers who wanted a reduction in the price of fuel. But in fact, this was not the last straw.
In fact, for several months, life had become increasingly difficult for the poor; basic foodstuffs had
become unaffordable; and there was also a democratic demand for President Biya to renounce the
constitutional manipulation that would allow him to run for president as many times as he wanted,
contrary to the constitutional provisions in force since 1996.
After three days of demonstrations during which the army fired live ammunition at unarmed
demonstrators, the corruption of some officials stunned the just movement of the legitimate demands
of the people. Nevertheless, there are still trade union leaders who properly assume their
responsibilities. That is why the struggle continues.
The alternatives of progressive political parties. It is difficult today, to identify with precision, the
progressive parties of Africa. In our opinion, we can (and must) ask ourselves whether it is appropriate
to consider as progressive political parties any political party which, according to circumstances or
events, displays a nationalist and patriotic vocabulary often of gross denial.
Since 1960, in fact, there has been an anthology of political parties of this type. They are among those
who put the pan-African ideas of Kwame Nkrumah in a minority at the Addis Ababa conference
which founded the Organization of African Unity (OAU) in May 1963. At its last congress which took
place from 14 to 17 August 2008 in Douala, the UPC adopted a political program which is the
alternative it presents in the face of the global crisis and the power in place in Cameroon. We have
entitled this program «Kamerun must change in a moving Africa and a moving world».
Only the Cameroonian people, together with other brotherly peoples of Africa and friends of Africa in
the world, can find adequate answers to the consequences caused by the global crisis.
The year of the fiftieth anniversary of the "independence" of African countries is irrefutable proof that
the unity of Africa is an inescapable imperative without the achievement of which the development
and effective independence of African countries is impossible. The overall situation of Africa and the
situation of each African country, taken in isolation, is unique or identical (...)
For some, the classes and dominant strata of the so-called rich and developed countries are the main
culprits of the global crisis from which African countries are suffering the consequences. The least that
can be expected from these countries is that they spontaneously propose to assume their
responsibilities in this crisis that they have caused. For example, these countries could decide, not in a
spirit of generosity, but rather out of a concern for justice, to cancel the false debt of all the so-called
poor countries. "The current situation, as it is organized and as it works, is nothing but a mountain of
injustice on all levels. And the peoples who live in ever deeper misery have the right and the duty to
revolt against this unjust world order. This is the case of the African peoples and, in particular, the
Cameroonian people.

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IV.Report of the brainstorming panel on the


international financial and economic crisis in
Cameroon

The international financial crisis is generally attributed to shocks to the US banking and financial
system. It reflects a deep crisis in the US growth regime. Indeed, the evolution of structural changes in
the distribution of income at the expense of wages compensated by an encouragement of indebtedness
which, year after year, has become excessive, is marked by the development of financial markets and
financial innovations.
It has led to the rise of debt securitization and over-the-counter transactions, which has led to an
increase in excessive debt and a loss of responsibility on the part of financial market players. This has
led to the development of risky and high-yield operations, characterized by a lack of transparency, the
opacity of operations, a progressive abandonment of financing of the real economy in favor of high-
risk speculative transactions, the failure of regulatory bodies and authorities, and the increasing
dependence of Central Banks on financial markets. The correlative failure of some financial
intermediaries, following the nationalization of two mortgage insurers, undermines the current
capitalist system, i.e. the system of market regulation by the market, through the observation of
payment defaults between banks, as well as between banks and mortgage brokers. It therefore
promotes a crisis of confidence between banking and financial institutions, creating a "snowball" or
mechanical contagion effect on the entire global capitalist system, and therefore affecting almost all
OECD member countries.
According to the African Development Bank, this rapid contagion of failures among internationally
active banks poses a serious threat to global growth, a threat that is part of the phenomenon known as
the "global synchronized slowdown". It is likely to undermine the gains achieved through the
successful implementation of macroeconomic policies, together with a significant improvement in
governance. The international financial crisis ultimately turns into a global economic crisis,
characterized by a deep and structural recession. Its effects will be all the more amplified as
economies, like that of Cameroon, are fragile and suffer from persistent structural deficiencies. The
purpose of this report is to take stock of the impact of the international financial crisis and to propose
to the Government measures likely to enable it to articulate a policy to end the crisis and revive strong
and sustainable growth of the Cameroonian economy.

A. An assessment of the impact of the


international financial crisis on the Cameroonian
economy
The consequences of the international financial crisis on the Cameroonian economy are immediate,
especially since all analysts agree that the crisis has affected long-term growth and its induced effects,
increased poverty, compromised the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and
significantly increased the unemployment rate. More specifically, several channels of transmission of
the crisis on the Cameroonian economy can be identified, namely: the financial system, the evolution
of capital flows, the productive system, foreign trade and public finances.

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1. Effects on the financial system


Cameroon's financial system in general and the banking system in particular is sound,
and its solidity should be all the more safeguarded as the control mechanisms put in place by COBAC
have preserved it from speculative investments and high-risk operations. However, it is to be feared
that credit rationing behaviors will develop, especially in the direction of SME/SMIs, where the habits
of non-repayment of loans are quite widespread, thus feeding the banks' fears. This could result in an
increase in the cost of financing due to the possible appearance of risk premiums in certain sectors,
which could affect the rate structure.
The crisis could also lead to an increase in repayment difficulties, which have already been observed
with the accumulation of unpaid debts in the forestry sector. A risk of fragility may also appear for
certain banks whose investments on international markets cannot be excluded and whose assets could
depreciate: this is the so-called asset effect. In general, however, fragility could also come from the
fact that despite the consolidation and structuring whose positive effects are now being appreciated,
the banking system needs to be consolidated. Likewise, attention should be paid to the impact that the
crisis could have due to the combination of certain measures such as the abrupt cessation of the
levying of management fees, the additional costs of the reform of the payment system, the increase in
the minimum capital of banks and the increase in unpaid debts. As a result of this crisis, African
investors would be less inclined to favor Western or Asian markets. This would result in a decrease in
capital flight and an increase in local investments, in this case in treasury bills and mandatory loans,
but also in local real estate and industries.

2. Effects on the evolution of capital flows


Cameroon could suffer the effects of a drying up of capital flows, possible withdrawals of foreign
assets, as well as a drop in foreign exchange reserves. It should also expect a significant drop in
official development assistance, foreign direct investment and remittances from the diaspora.
Difficulties of access to international financial markets would also be feared. However, taking into
account the fact that the financial institutions of the franc zone are mainly deposit banks mainly
oriented towards the domestic market, added to the residual controls exercised on the capital account,
it is not excluded that Africa, now considered as a real island of stability, may even hope for a massive
arrival of powerful sovereign funds, always on the lookout for new markets. In Cameroon, however,
the constraints linked to foreign exchange regulations and the repatriation of funds should be
alleviated.

3. The effects on the productive system


The financial crisis is affecting the real economy and has as its immediate consequence the fall in
demand for raw materials and the consequent collapse of their prices on the international market. This
drastic drop in prices, combined with the fall in the market capitalization of multinational mining
companies, is expected to have a negative impact on foreign investment projects. In this case, mining
exploration budgets will be revised downwards, as well as plans to expand new plants, or even
cancelled.
Other sectors such as tourism, air transportation and real estate are also likely to be affected. Indeed,
an accentuation of sectorial difficulties is foreseeable. In this respect, the forestry sector, which is
rather stricken, is the victim of a drastic drop in international demand and the rationing of bank loans.
The same applies to the mining, banana and cotton sectors. All in all, the weakening of the companies
in the sector would be concomitant with the deterioration of their production cost structures. In doing
so, only the telecommunications - mobile telephony - seems to be resisting the gust. However, experts
still expect a contraction in turnover and even a slowdown in investments.
Notwithstanding the somewhat pessimistic situation described above, new opportunities are
nevertheless opening up for our country. Indeed, with the decrease in oil reserves, the development of

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gas fields is becoming strategic and thus favors the emergence of new players,
although it should be taken into account that gas prices are correlated with those of oil.
Similarly, renewable energies (wind power, biofuels and solar energy, etc.) are
increasingly credible alternatives, precisely in view of the secular decline in oil reserves. However, the
amounts of investment devoted to them still remain anecdotal compared to the investments made in oil
research and production. The launch of the African Biofuels and Renewable Energy Fund (ABERF)
and especially its operationalization will be rather good for the national economic prospects.

4. The effects on foreign trade


With regard to agricultural export products, namely coffee, bananas and cotton, the prices of the latter,
after having recorded an increasing trend in recent years, are expected to begin a trend reversal.
However, for cocoa, price trends are currently rather contrasted and are even showing an increasing
trend. This could lead to a slowdown in exports due to the contraction of external demand, as in the
forestry sector, and a sharp deterioration in the terms of trade in 2009. The external competitiveness of
Cameroonian companies is also expected to decline due to the deterioration in the cost structure
already mentioned above and, on the other hand, due to the subsidies enjoyed by competitors (cotton
and banana sectors, for example).

5. Effects on public finances


The above-mentioned fall in oil costs drastically reduces budget revenues. Indeed, budget revenues -
in this case oil revenues - are strongly correlated with the evolution of Brent crude oil prices.
Moreover, given that the prices of raw materials are denominated in dollars, the fall in the cost of this
currency, which is depreciating against the euro, to which the CFA franc is pegged by a fixed
exchange rate, leads to a significant fall in budget revenue. With regard to non-oil revenue, the
slowdown in growth will lead to a contraction in tax revenue. This will inevitably lead to increased
difficulties in managing the domestic debt and a reduction in public investment and other capital
expenditure. In any case, the international financial crisis has already begun to take its toll on
Cameroon. For, the repercussions of the financial crisis and the slowdown of developed economies are
threatening growth. It is therefore urgent that diligent and strategic action be taken to avoid an erosion
of the significant economic gains made in our country in recent years.

B. Proposals for measures to be taken to mitigate


the effects of the financial and economic crisis in
Cameroon
In order to contain as far as possible the various effects listed above, a certain number of measures
could be envisaged in terms of economic policy actions which can be broken down into two main
areas: growth levers on the one hand and implementation instruments on the other.
First axis: The levers of growth
The levers of growth are: the execution of structural investments, the linking to the infrastructure
cycle, the implementation of sectorial policies, and finally the development of human resources and
scientific and technological research.

1. The implementation of structural investments and the linking to


the infrastructure cycle
The execution of structuring projects and the linkage to the global infrastructure cycle, concomitantly
with the acceleration of the implementation of regional integration projects aimed at optimizing

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Cameroon's industrial and energy production potential, given its strategic position in
the sub-region, should produce the effects of boosting recurrent and subcontracting
activities. The measures to be taken to this end would consist of:
? Ensuring the fluidity and integrity of the national space through the construction of a road backbone
linking the Littoral and Centre, West and Adamaoua regions, as well as the South and East regions.
? Accelerate the blocking of the financing of the investments of the road projects in progress, amplify
the execution of the road program , and reinforce the controls of effective execution, within the
framework of the Road Master Plan.
? Finalize the energy sector projects currently under way: the Dibamba thermal power plant, the Kribi
gas-fired power plant - one of the conditions for the extension of Alucam, with a view to curbing the
energy deficit.
? Accelerating the Kribi gas project with a view to increasing the energy sector's supply.
? Launching the construction of new hydroelectric dams - Lom Pangar, Natchigal, Memve'ele... with a
view to lifting the energy blockade and whose construction will provide the industry with
accompanying physical infrastructure.
? Completion of major infrastructure works in support of the industrial sector Cameroon Shipbuilding
and Industrial Construction (CNIC), etc.
? Launch major infrastructure works in support of the mining sector: extension of ALUCAM,
exploitation of cobalt, nickel and rutile, etc.?
? Amplify the communication infrastructure development program and, more particularly,
significantly reduce the deficit in telecommunications infrastructure and the low level of investment
aimed at developing the market in terms of teledensity: NICTs, the national backbone, tele-community
centres, etc.
? Initiate a vigorous program of rehabilitation of the National Park of Civil Engineering Equipment,
given that the execution of a certain number of major worksites is hampered by the unavailability of
appropriate equipment.
? Accelerate the operationalization of CAMAIR-CO and ensure the sustainability of the non-
functional national airports.
? Strengthen the existing railway infrastructures and create new ones, particularly for the transport of
certain minerals.
? To density the port fabric through the effective construction of the ports of Kribi and Limbe and to
improve the infrastructures of the port of Douala.

2. The effective implementation of sectorial policies


Cameroon could become a real relay country and optimize its geographical position in the sub-region,
by bringing out new branches and new sources of growth. Diversification and the correlative
determination of new choices of specialization therefore lead to a particular emphasis on the
development of sectors. This type of specialization has the advantage of making it possible to
progressively build an integrated economic fabric where the branches feed off each other's expansion.
In this respect, priority should be given to structuring investments, both from a spatial and sectorial
point of view. In this case, the sectorial policies referred to her concern the agricultural and forestry
sectors, industry and buildings and public works.

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i. The agricultural sector


It is imperative to revise agricultural policies, the objective being to increase
agricultural supply and control the internal market, not only to feed local populations, but also to be
able to compete effectively on the international market and conquer external markets.
To this end, the diversification and intensification of foreign trade towards the countries of the
CEMAC zone and Nigeria is a priority. Consequently, Cameroon would gain by becoming a real
breadbasket of Central Africa and would extend its influence towards the Sahelian countries.
The same applies to the strengthening of trade with emerging countries - India, China, Brazil - and
Eastern European countries such as Russia, for example.
It would therefore be advisable to identify a few key sectors: maize, rice, tubers, plantain bananas,
livestock products, and to set production level targets with constraints on achievement according to a
precise timetable accompanied by controls. This would lead to :
? Developing farms and pilot farms: these existed until the 1980s around research institutes and the
Ecole Nationale Supérieure d'Agronomie (ENSA), which created pilot application stations
according to the agricultural production zones of the livestock sector: NKO'O-ENVONE, NJOMBE,
WAKWA, etc. They had a considerable positive impact in the extension and dissemination of new
techniques and products. The aim is therefore to learn from successful experiences and extend them to
the whole territory.
? Reinforce the supervision of farmers.
? Tax exemption the entry of inputs and consider tariff and non-tariff protection measures vis-à-vis
competing products.
? Increase seed production and distribution at the level of research institutes.
? Support operators in the sector to increase the production of inputs and intermediate consumer
products: feed production, for example.
Similar measures should also be envisaged in the livestock and fisheries sector, and indeed increase
the production of parent stock for an extension of livestock production beyond traditional production
areas.
In addition, it would be advisable to create distribution networks for agricultural products throughout
the territory, by supporting the establishment of storage places and show shops.
It is imperative to develop the transfer of the results of agricultural research to the productive sector
and to support operations wishing to engage in the development of these activities (large urban centers
and Sahelian areas).

ii. The forestry sector


Cameroon has the second largest forest area in Africa and is one of the world's top five exporters of
tropical timber, with 80% of precious woods destined for export. The forestry sector thus constitutes a
significant comparative advantage and even a substantial factorial endowment and therefore represents
a capital in terms of natural resources that should be well exploited, especially as this sector remains
fragile due to the crisis. The Government should therefore:
? Rationalize and better control the sector by defining and rigorously applying the conditions of access
to the profession of forest manager. In particular, it should put an end to the current practice of
granting licenses, which encourages the sub-leasing of licenses with extremely damaging
consequences both for the protection of natural heritage and the environment, and for the development
of a forestry industry and its contribution to the budget of the State and decentralized communities.

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? To accompany the integration of nationals by a policy of support for the acquisition


of equipment, training and distribution of production.
? Structuring into groups the operators involved in processing, by supporting training in woodworking
trades, the acquisition of equipment, the establishment of distribution channels. ? To set quotas for the
supply of goods and local products from the wood sector to the authorities.
An essential component of the policy to revive growth is the policy of the commodity chains, which
must lead not only to the integration and densification of the productive fabric internally, but also to
anchoring it in a sub-regional and global perspective. Consequently, the development of sectors leads
to:
? To make an inventory of the current industrial fabric of Cameroon.
? To urgently elaborate a coherent industrial policy, by updating the industrialization master plan and
defining the priority sectors.
? To define a national industrial strategic perimeter with clearly defined objects, agreed priorities and a
coherent programming of operations.
? Ensure coherence between the macro-economic policy of the State, vertical sectoral policies and the
industrial policy.
? Encourage the emergence of a dense fabric of SMEs based on national entrepreneurship initiatives.

iii. The Building and Public Works sector


Obsolescence and obsolescence are today the major characteristics of the stock of capital present in the
Cameroonian economy. More particularly, with regard to the public works sector, the inexistence of a
stock of civil engineering equipment is an obvious fact and the shortage is, moreover, such that one
cannot be surprised by the poor quality of production in public works, particularly road maintenance.
It would therefore be necessary to :
? Launch a vigorous housing and social housing program by involving the SIC, MAETUR, and Crédit
Foncier du Cameroun, and set binding deadlines for implementation.
? Accelerate the implementation of the public real estate sector investment program within the
framework of the BIP.
? Define the binding conditions of existence for construction and public works companies, make a
census of these companies and reserve to them the exclusive right to carry out the projects.
? Defining and implementing the master development and urban planning schemes for the main cities.
? To support the industrial production of local materials for the building and public works sector with
the assistance of the Ecole Nationale Supérieure des Travaux Publics (ENSTP), the Ecole
Nationale Supérieure Polytechnique (ENSP), the Mission de Promotion des Matériaux Locaux
(MIPROMALO).

3. Development of human resources, scientific and technological


research
Today, the hierarchy of countries is determined by their capacity to produce knowledge and
technology, to insert them into the productive process for the international and domestic market. But
this implies that major efforts must be made to ensure the availability of a critical mass of human
capital and the development of scientific and technological research. The development of new sectors
and sectorial diversification must also be based on the latter. In this respect, it would be necessary to :

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? Significantly increase the number of places offered in all the high school from the
2009 academic year, with the objective of increasing the critical mass of technicians
and engineers within a horizon of 3 years with a view to reaching the ration of 100
technical executives per 1000 inhabitants,
? To this end, set up special program for graduates of the faculties, who would receive application
training there?
? Restructuring universities and higher education institutions by providing them with appropriate
means to give them the necessary flexibility to develop courses of study, the professionalization of
teaching, research and development, consultation and the increase of their own resources.
? Giving the technical high schools the status of business school.
? To set up technological watch structures.
? Institute dual nationality to attract the human resources of the diaspora and optimize their skills.
? Elaborate an attractive status for researchers to stop the decline of national scientific research. To do
this, it would be advisable to postpone the retirement age of researchers, improve the working
conditions of researchers and teaching staff and re-open research institutes.
? Develop a real policy for the valorization of research results and their transfer to the productive
sector.
? Define a few target sectors for scientific and technological research (pharmaceutical, biotechnology,
ICT, agricultural seeds, agro-food, agricultural machinery, etc.).
? Put in place appropriate funding mechanisms and incentives for operators taking the risk of investing
in the exploitation of research and technological innovation results, ? Create a structure for the
valorization and dissemination of technological innovation.
? Significantly increase the resources made available to universities and research institutes and sign
with them plan contracts defining the objectives to be achieved and allowing for an evaluation of
performance.
? To create a support fund, from State resources, which would be used for the installation and creation
of small enterprises by young graduates, for example by providing them with the personal contribution
required by the banks.
The said fund would be accompanied by a monitoring mechanism for the project financed.
? Create a tax for the financing of education and the training of a critical mass of human capital.
Second axis: Implementation instruments
The implementation instruments relate to: the implementation of financing policy, the streamlining of
public finance management and fiscal policy, the refinement of the role of institutions and governance
and an active policy of attracting foreign direct investment.

4. Implementation of financing policy


The development of new sources of growth requires massive investment. Indeed, the economy does
not generate a sufficient surplus to renew itself and increase its capacity to produce new wealth,
because there is neither investment to replace and renew the capital stock nor investment to increase it.
Public capital expenditure should in this respect reach a rate of the order of 30%, in association with
private investment expenditure.

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However, this would require a prior review of the architecture of the financial system.
This is a question of:
? Promote the creation of venture capital companies for the financing of the top of the balance sheet.
? Creating a development bank for the financing of priority sectors (agriculture, SME/SMI, etc.)
? Restructure public financial institutions for financing and investment promotion in specialized
sectors: Crédit Foncier du Cameroun for efficient financing of social housing and to enable the
development of a genuine real estate market and the Société Nationale d'Investissement (SNI) for the
financing of public enterprises.
? Consolidate Cameroon's financial market through the systematic use of the Stock Exchange for the
privatization of public enterprises, while encouraging financial innovation to diversify the forms of
investment of national savings (open-ended investment companies and mutual funds, etc.).
? Develop a support mechanism for SME/SMIs in terms of upgrading and setting up projects,
involving the Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Handicrafts.
? Set up guarantee and bonding structures and create a guarantee fund within the framework of the
public/private partnership guaranteeing the repayment of loans (Guarantee Fund, Mutual Guarantee
Companies, etc.).
? To set in motion the mechanism of partnership contracts and the B.O.T. the creation and
development of venture capital and leasing companies for the financing of productive equipment.
? Negotiate with the BEAC the revision of the structure of rates and their repercussion at the level of
banks and harmonize the interest rates charged by local banks with those in force in countries at the
same level of development as Cameroon.
? Support the development of credit and micro-finance institutions through training, eligibility for
external financing lines, access to guarantees, under defined conditions, to public markets.
? To refocus the role of FEICOM with a view to increasing the financing of equipment for
decentralized local authorities.

5. Public funds and Budgetary Policy


The State budget should play a predominant role in the process of implementing structuring
investments. In particular, the share of public capital expenditure in the public investment budget
should increase significantly. The measures to be taken would therefore consist of :
? Recourse to a compulsory loan in the short term to give the State the means for its intervention.
? Developing financing through the issue of public securities negotiable on the financial market.
? Intensify the search for concessional financing.
? Use the drawing capacity of the Central Bank (Article 19 B of the BEAC statutes).
? Use the resources of the international financial market in the medium and long term.
? Rigorously apply the VAT refund modalities.
? Introduce taxation on the acquisition of industrial equipment, intermediate consumption and heavy
equipment to encourage the development of investment; strengthen measures to control and rationalize
public expenditure.

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? Review the conditions and pace of settlement of the domestic debt, and control its
origin.

6. Institutions and Governance


It is now accepted that growth and development are not only about the accumulation of wealth as a
result of an optimal combination of production factors, but also, and above all, about more efficient
institutions and good governance policies. Consequently, given that the return to equilibrium of the
macroeconomic aggregates is a long-term process, the achievement of this balance requires the
existence, or even the creation, of efficient and effective public organizations. The measures to be
taken would therefore consist of:
? Speeding up the reform of the justice system and taking urgent measures to guarantee legal and
judicial security, particularly in terms of financing and the realization of guarantees and securities, and
sanctioning unscrupulous clients of banks.
? Resume planning and structure its framework, with the budget becoming one of the instruments for
its implementation.
? Establish a one-stop shop for business creation and investment promotion.
? Urgent and in-depth reform of procurement procedures in order to make them more dynamic and
transparent, simplify the procedure and reduce costs.
? Systematize controls and sanctions relating to the execution of contracts and the effectiveness of
project implementation.
? Create a file by major sector of activity of companies meeting the required entry requirements.
? To ensure the effectiveness and follow-up of decisions taken and the dissemination of information to
the actors; to stimulate local communities to become development structures, with the designation of
precise objectives to be achieved and by reinforcing the support and action of the National Program
and Participatory Development.
? Give a new impetus to the spatial planning policy in relation to the regional integration policy.

7. Attractiveness of foreign direct investment


Given the assets that Cameroon has at its disposal, namely its political stability, the diversity of its
subsoil, its fauna and flora, its hydraulic network and its particular climatology, the quality of its
human resources, it could claim a significant increase in foreign direct investment. But to do so, it
would be necessary to first:
? Operationalize the Investment Charter, in coherence with the sub-regional Charter, through the
elaboration and implementation of the Sectorial Codes.
? Develop information on the potentialities and assets of Cameroon as a destination.
? Set up investment promotion structures (Investment Promotion Agency, Export Promotion Agency).
At the end of the analysis of the international financial and economic crisis and its impact on
Cameroon, it appeared that this deep crisis stems from the propagation in the world of shocks from the
American banking and financial system, given the interdependence of national economies. It is
affecting Cameroon relatively and could worsen due to certain structural deficiencies in its economy.
To protect itself from the effects of this crisis, Cameroon should implement a policy of strong and
sustainable growth by using the levers of growth which are: the execution of structural investments,
the implementation of sectorial policies and the development of human and technological resources.

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To this end, the following economic policy instruments should be used an adequate
financing policy, rationalization of public finance management and fiscal policy,
refinement of the role of institutions and governance and the attraction of foreign
direct investment. In any event, particular emphasis should be placed on agricultural policies to tackle
the food crisis, on the development of infrastructure of all kinds and on the development of human
capital.
The following members of the Reflection Group on the Economic and Financial Crisis have signed the
agreement:
Signatures:
Chairman: Mr. Emmanuel NGANOU DJOUMESSI Members:
? Mr. Lazare ESSIMI MENYE
? Mr. Louis Paul MOTAZE
? Prof. Bruno BEKOLO EBE
? Pr TOUNA MAMA
? Prof. Germain NDJIEUNDE
? Prof. DONTSI
? Prof. Etienne Modeste ASSIGA ATEBA
? Mr Bénédict BELIBI
? Mr. Charles METOUCK
? Mr Moïse NZEMEN

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PART 2:
MATHEMATICS
COURSES

CHAP 1: Probability reminders

I. Probabilistic vocabulary
Definitions
The set of possible outcomes of a random experiment is called the universe and is commonly noted Ω.
Any part of Ω is called an event.
Any singleton of Ω is called an elementary event.
Example:
Consider the random experiment of rolling a cubic die with faces numbered 1 through 6 and raising
the number on the top face of the die.
? The universe here is Ω = {1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6}.
? Two events associated with this random experiment are
A = {1, 2, 5}
B: «the number obtained is odd» or B = {1, 3, 5}.

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? The elementary events associated with this random experiment are: {1}, {2}, {3},
{4}, {5}, and {6}.
The following table indicates the meaning of the various expressions used in the language of the
events

Set language probabilistic language Notation


Ω Universe of possibilities Ω = {ω1,ω2,··· ,ωn}
Singleton Elementary event {ωi},i ∈ {1,2,··· ,n}
A is part of Ω A is an event of Ω A⊂Ω
A is empty Event A is impossible A=∅
A equals Ω Event A is certain A=Ω
Assembly of parts A and B “A or B" event A∪B
Intersection of parts A and B Event « A et B A∩B
Parts A and B are separated Events A and B are not compatible A ∩ B∅
Parts A and B are complementary Events A and B are opposite B=A

II. Probability analysis


A. Probability of an event
Definition
A probability on Ω is an application p of P(Ω), all parts of Ω to [0;1], which to any part A of Ω
associates the number p(A) called probability of the event A and verifying the conditions :
? 0 ≤ p(A) ≤ 1;
? p(∅) = 0;
? p(Ω) = 1.
Properties
? The sum of the probabilities of the elementary events is 1.
? The probability of an event is the sum of the probabilities of the elementary events that make it up.In

case of equiprobability, we have

Remark
If events A and B are incompatible, i.e.: A ∩ B = ∅ then p(A ∪ B) = p(A) + p(B).

B. Conditional probabilities

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Definition
These are A and B two events of a random experiment in a universe of possibilities
We call Probability of B knowing A the number between [0,1] call 𝑝𝐵 (A) or p(A/B) defined by:

In the multiplicative version we have


Example
A serious student in the final year of secondary school has an 80% chance of having his or her GCE
A/L in September 2020. During the following summer holidays, he or she takes the ESSEC exam,
DESC option. The competition is open to all students (GCE A/L holders or not) but our candidate has
a 60% chance of being admitted to this school if he has a baccalaureate and 30% otherwise.
Note B the event "the student passes his Baccalaureate" and A the event "the student is admitted to the
school".
1. Translate all this information using probabilities.
2. (a) Write the event "the pupil passes his GCE A/L and is admitted to ESSEC" according to A
and B.
(b) Then determine the probability of this event.

C. Independence
Definition
Let A and B be two events of a random experiment in a universe of possibilities Ω.
Let p be a probability on Ω.
Events A and B are said to be independent when the occurrence (or not) of one has no influence on the
probability of occurrence of the other.
pB(A) = p(A) or pA(B) = p(B).
Theorem (criterion of independence of two events)
Two events A and B are independent if and only if p(A ∩ B) = p(A) ∩ p(B).
Example
Two dice are rolled and the event "the first die brings an even number" is designated by A, the event
"the second die brings an odd number" by B, and the event "both dice bring an even number" by C.
Study the dependence of the events A and B, A and C, and then B and C.

III. Random Variables (RV)

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A. Definition and law of probability

Definition
RANDOM VARIABLES (RV) or V.A in french
Either Ω the universe associated with a random experiment.
We call random variable (RV) any application X from Ω to R.
X(Ω) is the image universe of Ω by the RV X, or the set of values taken by X.
Definition
The probability law of the random variable X is the function L of X(Ω) to [0;1] defined by :
∀k ∈ ∈ X(Ω),L(k) = p{X = k}
It is often presented in a table:

Possible values (xi) x1 x2 ··· xn


Probability (pi = p{X = xi}) p1 p2 ··· pn

B. Mathematical expectation, variance and


standard deviation

The mathematical expectation of a random variable X, denoted E(X) is the real number defined by:
The variance of a random variable X, denoted V (X) is the positive real number defined by:
Property (Koenig formula)
V (X) = E(X2) - (E(X))2.
Where E(X2) is the mathematical expectation of the random variable X2.
The standard deviation of a random variable X, denoted σ(X) is the square root of its variance:
σ(X) = 𝒑𝑽 (X).
Example
Roll two well-balanced cubic dice D1 and D2 numbered from 1 to 6 and note the numbers on the top
side of each die. Note by a and b the respective numbers on the top faces of the dice D1 and D2. Let X
be the random variable equal to the number of solutions in R of the equation: x2 + ax + b = 0.
1. Determine the set of values taken by X.
2. To deduce the law of probability of the RV X.
3. Determine E(X), V (X) and σ(X).

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C. Binomial law

1. Bernouilli proof
Definition
A Bernouilli test is a randomized experiment with two outcomes of possibilities: "Success" and
"Failure".
If p is the probability of success, then the probability of failure is q = 1 - p.

2. Bernouillian scheme
If we consider a Bernouilli test of pass with probability p and fail with probability q = 1-p, repeated n
times independently, and if we note X, the v.a designating the number of passes obtained during these
n repetitions, we say that the v.a or rv X follows the binomial law of parameters n and p, noted B(n,p).
We write X # B(n,p).
Then for any integer k, such as 0 ≤ k ≤ n,
Properties
If X # B(n,p), then

Example
A two-sided (P) and (F) face-up trick coin is thrown. The probability of P appearing is three times that
of F. Let S be the event "Get face P". This experiment is repeated ten (10) times and in independent
ways and we designate by X the random variable which, during these 10 repetitions, is equal to the
number of times that face P appears.
1. Let p be the probability of the event S. Determine p.
2. Justify that the rv. follows a binomial law whose parameters will be specified.
3. Determine E(X), V (X) and σ(X).
4. Determine the probability law of the rv X.
5. Derive the probabilities P {X ≤ 1}, P {X > 9}, P {2 ≤ X < 3} and P {5 ≤ X ≤ 7}.

IV. Practice Research Exercise


An association organizes a lottery for which a participation m expressed in FCFA is required.
A player must randomly shoot two balls simultaneously into an urn containing 2 green balls (GB) and
3 yellow balls (YB).
If the player gets two balls of different colors, he has lost.
If the player gets two yellow balls, he is reimbursed for his m.
If the player gets 2 green balls, he can continue the game of spinning a wheel with winnings as
follows:

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? On the wheel, the gain is 100 FCFA;


? On the wheel, the winnings are 20 FCFA;
? On the rest, the player is reimbursed for his participation.
The events are considered:
G: “he player got two green balls”.
Y: " the player got two yellow balls ".
R: " the player is reimbursed for his participation and wins nothing ".

1 Some calculations.
(a) Calculate the probabilities: P(G) and P(Y) of the respective events G and Y.
(b) We note 𝑃𝑉 (R) the probability for the player to be reimbursed knowing that he has obtained two
green balls. Determine 𝑃𝑉 (R), then P(R ∩ G ).
(c) Calculate P(R).
(d) Calculate the probability of winning the 100 FCFA, then the probability of winning the 20 on the
wheel.

2 X is the random variable giving the player's algebraic gain, i.e. the difference between the
eventual sums received and the initial participation m.
(a) Give the values taken by the rv. X.
(b) Give the law of probability of the r.v. X and verify that P {X = -m} = 0.6.
(c) Demonstrate that the mathematical expectation of the r.v.
(d) The organizer wants to set the participation m to an integer value in FCFA.
What is the minimum value of m to be given to m so that the organizer can hope not to lose money?

3 A player shows up and decides to play 4 times, regardless of the results obtained.
Calculate the probability that he loses at least once his bet.

4 We would like a player to have more than a 50/50 chance of getting their bet back or winning
when they play once. This event is denoted by G.
To do this, we keep two green balls in the ballot box but change the number of yellow balls.
We call n the number of yellow balls, we assume n ≥ 1.
Calculate the minimum value of n so that the previous condition is verified.

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CHAP 2: SEQUENCES AND SERIES

I. Global study of a numerical sequence

A. Definition of a numerical sequence

Definition
The numerical sequence noted (Un)n∈I is called any application U of a part I of ℕ to ℝ.
In general, a numerical sequence (Un) is determined by one of the following procedures:
An explicit formula: Un = f(n), where f is a numerical function with a real variable. (
𝑢𝑛0
A first given term and a recurrence formula : where f is a function {𝑢 = f(Un), ∀n ≥ 𝑛0
𝑛+1
where f is a numerical function with a real variable

B. Direction of variation of a numerical sequence

Definition
Let (𝑢𝑛 ) be a numerical sequence. We say that (One) is:
ascending (resp. strictly ascending) when:
∀n ∈ N,Un+1 ≥ Un (resp. Un+1 > Un).
decreasing (resp. strictly decreasing) when :
∀n ∈ N,Un+1 ≤ Un (resp. Un+1 < Un).
constant when :
∀n ∈ N,Un+1 = Un

EXAMPLE
To study the direction of variation of the sequence (Un) defined by
Solution
Let n ∈ N. Let's study the sign of Un+1 - Un. We have :

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Therefore: ∀n ∈ N,Un+1 - Un < 0; hence the sequence (Un) is strictly decreasing.

C. Notion of boundaries in sequences


Definition
• A sequence (Un),n ∈ N is said to have an upper bound if ∃M ∈ R/ ∀n ∈ N,Un ≤ M.

• A sequence (Un),n ∈ N is said to have a lower bound if ∃m ∈ R/ ∀n ∈ N,m ≤ Un.

• A sequence (Un),n ∈ N possesses an upper and a lower bound if ∃m,M ∈ R/∀n ∈ N,m ≤ Un ≤ M.
This sequence is in this case said to be bounded.
Example
Show that the sequence (Un) defined by is boundaries

D. Convergence of a numerical sequence


Definition
Either (Un)n∈E a digital suite.
When limn → +∞Un = l ∈ R, we say that the sequence (Un) converges to l.
When limn → +∞Un = ∞, the sequence (Un) is said to diverge.

E. Specific numerical sequence

1. Arithmetic Sequences

General shape
𝑢𝑝
{𝑢 + 𝑟 , r ∈ R.
𝑛+1 = 𝑢𝑛+𝑟

r is the reason for the arithmetic sequence (Un) and Up is the first term.
Explicit formula
Un = Up + (n - p)r,∀p ≤ n.

Direction of variation
? If r < 0, then (One) is a strictly decreasing sequence.

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? If r = 0, then (Un) is a constant sequence.


? If r > 0, then (Un) is a strictly increasing sequence.
Convergence
If r = 0, then , so (Un) converges
If r < 0, then lim Un = -∞, so (Un) diverges. n→+∞
If r > 0, then lim Un = +∞, so (Un) diverges. n→+∞

Sum of consecutive terms


(𝒇𝒊𝒓𝒔𝒕 𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒎 + 𝒍𝒂𝒔𝒕 𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒎)
𝑺𝒏 = 𝑵 ×
𝟐
Where N is the number of terms of the sum
Remark
To determine the number of terms in a sum of consecutive terms, the formula:
Number of terms = Index of the last term - Index of the first term - 1.

Exercise resolved
We consider the sequences (un) and (vn) defined by : and
1.(a) Show that the sequence (vn) is arithmetic and specify its reason and its first term.
(b) Deduce the direction of variation of (vn).
2. Express vn, then one as a function of n.
3. Study the convergence of the sequences (un) and (vn).
4. We pose: Sn = v0 + v1 + --- + vn. Is the sequence (Sn) convergent?
Solution
1. (a) Let us show that (vn) is an arithmetic sequence.
We have :

However

So

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(vn) is an arithmetic sequence of reason r = 3 and of first term

(b) Let's deduce the direction of variation of (vn).


The reason for (vn) is r = 3 which is strictly positive, therefore (vn) is a strictly increasing sequence.
2. Let us express vn, then one as a function of n.
The sequence (vn) being arithmetic of reason r = 3 and of first term we have:

On the other hand,

So

12n +1 4
vn = et u n =
4 12n +5

3. Study of the convergence of the (un) and (vn) sequences

We have u n ) converges to 0

We have , v n ) diverge

4. We set: Sn = v0 + v1 + --- + vn and Tn = u0 + u1 + --- + one. Study of the convergence of the


sequence (Sn) We have:

So, the sequence (S n ) diverges

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II. Geometric sequences

General form
𝑢𝑝
{𝑈
𝑛+1 = 𝑞𝑈𝑛

q is the reason for the arithmetic sequence (Un) and Up the first term.

General form
∀p ≤ n,Un = Up × qn−p.
Convergence
If -1 < q < 1, that is, |q| < 1 or if q = 1, then (Un) is convergent.
If q ≤ 1, then (One) is divergent.
Sum of consecutive terms

𝟏 − 𝒒𝒏+𝟏
𝑺𝒏 = (𝒇𝒊𝒓𝒔𝒕 𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒎) ×
𝟏 − 𝒒𝒏
N is the number of terms in the sequence.
Exercise resolved
𝑈0 = 4
Let (un) and (vn) be the sequences defined by :{ 1 2 and vn = un - 1.
𝑛 ≥ 0, 𝑈𝑛+1 = 3 𝑈𝑛 + 3

1. Demonstrate that the sequence (vn) is geometrical. Specify the reason and the first term.
2. Express vn, then one as a function of n.
3. Study the convergence of the sequences (un) and (vn).
4. We pose: Sn = v0 + v1 + --- + vn and Tn = u0 + u1 + --- + one.
(a) Express Sn and Tn as a function of n.
(b) Study the convergence of the sequences (Sn) and (Tn).
Solution

III. Some training exercises (It's up to you!!!!)


Exercise 01
We consider the sequences (an) and (bn) defined on N by: and
1. Calculate a2, a3, b1, b2 and b3.

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2. Show that the sequence (bn) is a geometric sequence of reason and first term
to be specified.
3. Express bn, then an as a function of n.
4. Calculate the sum

Exercise 2
On considère les suites (Un) et (Vn) définies sur N par : and
1. Calculate V0 and V1.
2. Show that the sequence (Vn) is a geometric sequence. 1.25pt] [1.25pt]
3. Express Vn, then Un as a function of n. [1.5pt]
4. One poses: Sn = V0 + V1 + --- + Vn.
5. (a) Express Sn as a function of n. [0.5pt] [0.5pt]
6. (b) Then calculate the limit of the sequence (Sn). 0. [0.5pt]
Exercise 3
We consider the sequences (un) and (vn) defined on N by:

Take into account: Sn = un + vn et Dn = un − vn.


(a) Show that the sequence (Sn) is geometrical and we will specify the first term and the reason.
(b) Show that the sequence (Dn) is arithmetic and we will specify the first term and the reason.
Express Sn and Dn as a function of n.
Le An = u0 + u1 + ··· + un et Bn = v0 + v1 + ··· + vn.t
(a) Show that: An + Bn = 2n+1 - 1 and that An - Bn = (n + 1)2.
(b) To deduce An and Bn as a function of n.
(c) Study the convergence of the sequences (An) and (Bn).

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CHAP 3: REMINDERS ON FUNCTIONS

I. LIMITS
A. LIMITS

Limits and operations on functions


Let f and g be two functions,𝑥𝑜 , l and 𝑙 ′ real numbers.
 Limit of the sum of two functions

lim f(x) x→x0 l +∞ −∞ +∞ −∞ +∞


lim g(x) l0 l0 l0 +∞ −∞ −∞
x→x0
lim (f + g)(x) l + l0 +∞ −∞ +∞ −∞ I.F
x→x0
 Limit of the product of two functions

lim f(x) l −∞ +∞ +∞ ou − ∞ +∞ −∞ +∞
x→x0
lim g(x) 𝑙′ 𝑙′ ≠ 0 𝑙′ ≠ 0 0 +∞ −∞ −∞
x→x0

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−∞ if 𝑙 ′ > 0 −∞ if 𝑙 ′ < 0
lim (fg)(x) l𝑙 ′ { { I.F +∞ +∞ −∞
+∞ if 𝑙 ′ < 0 +∞ if 𝑙 ′ > 0
x→x0

 Limit of the quotient of two functions

lim f(x) l 𝑙≠0 0 L +∞ +∞


x→x0
lim g(x) 𝑙′ ≠ 0 0 0 +∞ l0 +∞
x→x0

+∞ I.F 0 +∞ I.F
The I.F rating means "Indeterminate Form".

We therefore distinguish 4 IFs, namely:


When one finds oneself in one of these situations, one cannot conclude on the limit. One then proceeds
by "lifting the indetermination" which varies according to the case.
Limit Properties
The limit in infinity of a polynomial function is equal to the limit in infinity of its highest monomer.
The limit in infinity of a rational fraction is equal to the limit in infinity of the quotient of the highest
degree monomers of the numerator and the denominator.
Example

lim (x 3 +4 x 2 − 48x +25)=


? x →−∞ lim x 3 = − ∞
x →−∞
x 2 +5 x − 4 x 2
1
? x →lim = x →lim =
+∞ 7x 2 − 21x + ∞ 7x 2 7

Method 1
0
To remove the type indeterminacy , one can proceed as follows:
0

 Factor the numerator and denominator by (x - x0) and calculate the limit of the new quotient
obtained.
 If the quotient contains radicals, the conjugated expression is introduced.
 Use the two previous points.

We have
0
So we have an IF of the form ,
0

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Method

To remove the indeterminacy of the ∞-∞ type or the infinity type of functions with radicals, one can

proceed as follows:
 Factor in the term of highest degree.
 Introduce the conjugated expression.
 Use successively the previous points

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Because x → +∞

B. Infinite branches
Definition
1. When lim 𝑓(𝑥) = ∞, we say that the line of equation: x = 𝑥0 is asymptote vertical to the curve of
𝑥→𝑥0

f.
2. When lim 𝑓(𝑥)= l ∈ ℝ, the line of equation: y = l is horizontally asymptotic to the curve of f.
𝑥→∞

3. When lim 𝑓(𝑥) [f(x) - (ax + b)] = 0, we say that the line of equation: y = ax + b is asymptote
𝑥→∞
oblique to the curve of f.

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When the limit of a function in infinity is infinite, we calculate the


limit. The different possible cases are summarized in the following table where a and b designate
respectively the limits and

a=∞ The curve f admits a parabolic branch in the direction of (OJ).

a∈R b∈R The line of equation: y = ax + b is an asymptote to the curve of


f
The curve of f admits a parabolic branch in the direction of the
b=∞ straight line of equation: y = ax
The curve of f admits an asymptotic direction that of the
b n’existe pas straight line of equation: y = ax

a n’existe pas Neither asymptotic, asymptotic direction, nor parabolic branch

II. Continuity
Definition
A function f is said to be continuous at a point x0 ∈ 𝐷𝑓 when lim 𝑓(𝑥)= f(𝑥0 ).
𝑥→𝑥0

Remark
f is continuous in x0 if and only if lim− 𝑓(𝑥) and lim+ 𝑓(𝑥) exist and
𝑥→𝑥0 𝑥→𝑥0

lim 𝑓(𝑥)= lim+ 𝑓(𝑥)= f(𝑥0 ).


𝑥→𝑥0− 𝑥→𝑥0

Definition
We say that f is continuous over an interval I if it is continuous at each point of I.
Intermediate Value Theorem (General Form)
Let f be a continuous function over an interval I, a and b two elements of I.
Any number between f(a) and f(b) admits at least one antecedent by f between a and b.
Remark
This theorem makes it possible to justify the existence of solutions to an equation.
Intermediate Value Theorem (Particular Form)
Let f be a continuous function over an interval I, a.
If there are two elements a and b (a < b) of I such that f(a) and f(b) have opposite signs, then the
equation f(x) = 0 admits at least one solution in the interval [a;b].

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Example
Let f be the function defined on R by: f(x) = x3 - 3x - 1.
Demonstrate that the equation: f(x) = 0 admits at least one solution in the interval [-1;0].
The theorem of bijection
Let f be a continuous and strictly monotonous function over an interval I.
Then f performs a bijection from I to f(I).
Remark
This theorem makes it possible to justify the existence and uniqueness of a solution of an equation.
Example
Let f be the function defined on R by: f(x) = 𝑥 4 - 3x - 1.
Demonstrate that the equation: f(x) = 0 a single solution in the interval] 1; 2[.

III. Derivability
Let f be a definition set function Df and x0 ∈ Df.

Definition
A function f : [a,b] → R is derivable on [a,b] if it is derivable on ]a,b[, derivable to the right of a and
to the left of b.
In this case we have

Example

Consider the function g(x) = x x. Dg = [0,+∞[. This function is derivable on ]0,+∞[ and its derivative f0
is the function given by . Lets study the derivability at the point 0. We have
(0) = 0, and so the function is derivable at the
point
0. Hence f is derivable on [0,+∞[.
Exercise

Determine whether the function g(x) = x is derivable on [0,+∞[.
Ans: It isnt, as lim Property:
A function f derivable on an interval K is continuous in that interval.

A. Derivative and Sense of Variation


Let f be a function derivable on an interval K.

• If ∀x ∈ K,f0(x) ≥ 0, then f is increasing on K.

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• If ∀x ∈ K,f0(x) ≤ 0, then f is decreasing on K.

• if ∀x ∈ K,f0(x) = 0, then f is constant on K.


Note: If the inequalities above are strict, then we talk of strictly increasing or strictly decreasing.
Example

1. f(x) = ex; Df = R f0(x) = ex∀x ∈ Df, f0(x) > 0, hence f is strictly increasing on R.

2. .
0
and ∀x ∈ Df, f (x) < 0, so f is strictly decreasing on Df.

• Relative position of a curve and a line


Let f be a function 2 times derivable on an interval K and let g represent the equation of a line. To
study the relative position of the curve (C) of f and the line (∆) of g, we study the function h given by
h = f − g.

• If ∀x ∈ K,h(x) > 0 → (f(x)−g(x)) > 0;→ f(x) > g(x), then (C) is on top of (∆) on K. We say that
f is convex on K.

• If ∀x ∈ K,h(x) < 0, then (C) is below (∆) on K. We say that f is concave on K.

B. Study of Functions
A. Steps for studying a function
Step 1: Determine the domain of definition Df of the function.
Step 2: Determine the limits at boundary points of Df and the possible asymptotes e.g. If Df =] − ∞,+∞[,
then we look for:
limx→−∞ f(x) and limx→+∞ f(x)
Step 3: Determine the derivability and if possible the derivative f0 of f.
Step 4: Look for the turning points of the function, if any i.e the points x ∈ Df such that f0(x) = 0
Step 5: Find the sense of variation of the function, i.e the regions (sub-set(s) of Df) for which the
function is increasing (f0(x) ≥ 0) or decreasing (f0(x) ≤ 0)
Step 6: Draw the table of variation for f(x). Step 7: Draw the graph of f

Example 1
Study and represent the graph of the function defined by :

Solution
Step 1: Domain of definition
Df = {x ∈ R : f(x) ∈ R}
Df = {x ∈ R : x2 − x − 2 6= 0}
Df = {x ∈ R : (x + 1)(x − 2) 6= 0}
Df = {x ∈ R : x 6= −1andx 6= 2}
Hence Df = R \ {−1,2} =] − ∞,−1[∪] − 1,2[∪]2,+∞[ Step 2: Limits at boundary points and asymptotes
We have lim
Also, limx→−∞ f(x) = −∞
By Euclidean division x3 by (x2 − 2x − 2), we obtain

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But lim
So the line (∆1) of equation y = x + 1 is an oblique asymptote to (C) at +∞. In the same
light, we show that (∆1) is an oblique asymptote to (C) at −∞.
We equally have limx→−1− f(x) = −∞ and limx→−1+ f(x) = +∞. So the line (∆2) of equation x = 1 is a
vertical asymptote to (C).
We also have limx→−2− f(x) = −∞ and limx→−2+ f(x) = +∞. So the line (∆3) of equation x = 2 is a vertical
asymptote to (C). Step 3: Derivability and derivatives f is a rational function, so is derivable in its
domain of definition and its derivative is the function
Step 4: Turning points
We have f0(x) = 0 ⇐⇒√x2(x2 − 2x −√6) = 0
⇐⇒ x = 0 or x = 1 + 7 or x = 1 − 7
2
Also, ∀x ∈ Df , ( x 2 − x2 x − 2) 2 ≥ 0 and so the sign of f0(x) is that of the polynomial x2 − 2x − 6
√ √ √ √
We have ∀x ∈]√−∞,1− 7[∪]1+ 7,√+∞[,f (x) > 0. So f is increasing on ]−∞,1−
0
7[ and
on√]1+ 7,+∞[

Also, ∀x ∈]1− 7,−1[∪]−1,2[∪]2,1+ 7[,f0(x) < 0, so f is decreasing on each of the intervals ]1−
7,−1[,]−1,2[ √
and ]2,1 + 7[
Step 5: Sense of variation
f0(x) ≥ 0 ⇐⇒ 2x − 2 ≥ 0 ⇐⇒ 2x ≥ 2 ⇐⇒ x ≥ 1.So,∀x ∈ [1,+∞[, f is increasing
f0(x) ≤ 0 ⇐⇒ 2x − 2 ≤ 0 ⇐⇒ 2x ≤ 2 ⇐⇒ x ≤ 1. So, ∀x ∈] − ∞,1], f is
decreasing.
Step 6: Table of variation

Step 7: Graph of f

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Chapter 4: INTEGRATION
The integral of a positive function f : [a,b] −→ R is the area of the plain region delimited by the x-axis,
the graph of f and the two vertical lines x = a , x = b and is denoted by

NB: All continuous functions are integrable.

I. Usual integrals

For α = −1 this becomes

II. Properties of integration


Let f and g be two functions continuous on [a,b]
1.
2. ∀x ∈ [a,b], f(x) ≥ 0 (respectively f(x) ≤ 0), then

3. If ∀x ∈ [a,b],f(x) ≤ g(x) then

4. ∀c ∈ [a,b] Rab f(x)dx = Rac f(x)dx + Rcb f(x)dx

5. |Rab f(x)dx| ≤ Rab |f(x)|dx


NB:
Let f be a function defined on [−a,a]
• If f is an even function, then

• If f is an odd function, then

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III. Average value


Let f be a function continuous on [a,b]. The average value of f on [a,b] is

IV. Integration by parts


Proposal
Let u and v be two functions derivable on [a;b] such that u0 and v0 are derivable on [a;b]. Then we
have:
.
This method of calculating integrals is called integration by parts.
𝜋
Example: Calculate the integral with the help of part integration ∫02 𝑥𝑐𝑜𝑠 𝑥 𝑑𝑥

Solution
𝑢(𝑥) = 𝑥 𝑢′ (𝑥) = 1
Let's post { ′ and { so,
𝑣 (𝑥) = cos 𝑥 𝑣(𝑥) = sin 𝑥

Example: Calculate

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SECTION
B: PAST
QUESTION
AND
CORRECTIO
N
PART 1: GENERAL KNOWLEDGE
PAST QUESTION

Subject General KNOWLEDGE DESC 2010


Performance conditions: Duration: 2 hours Unauthorized documents.

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Subject
After introducing the company's various partners, what are the company's missions?

Subject General KNOWLEDGE DESC 2012


Performance conditions: Duration: 2 hours Unauthorized documents.
Subject
Using concrete examples of your choice, show the ways and means by which the collective interest
can be brought to the attention of all Cameroonians.

Subject General KNOWLEDGE DESC DESC 2013


Performance conditions: Duration: 2 hours Unauthorized documents.
Subject
Using concrete examples of your choice, tell how SENAT is useful for Cameroonians.

Subject General KNOWLEDGE DESC DESC 2014


Performance conditions: Duration: 2 hours Unauthorized documents.
Subject
The Children's Parliament session emphasized the need for education for children. To show from
concrete examples the benefits of children's education.

Subject General KNOWLEDGE DESC DESC 2015


Performance conditions: Duration: 2 hours Unauthorized documents.
Subject
How can sport in general, and soccer in particular, usefully contribute to the development of the
Cameroonian economy?
Illustrate your analysis with practical examples of your choice.

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CORRECTION

Subject General KNOWLEDGE DESC t DESC 2010


Performance conditions: Duration: 2 hours Unauthorized documents.
Subject
After introducing the company's various partners, what are the company's missions?
POINT OF CORRECTION

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Introduction
A company can be defined as an association of persons with a precise global objective
and fulfilling a very specific mission. From a legal point of view, it is considered as a natural or legal
person fulfilling all its obligations. The company therefore appears as an association of persons. In its
activities, the company works at the same time with several poles which constitute its partners. Among
which one can quote: customers, suppliers, actuators, etc... It is therefore up to us to explain first of all
who the company's partners are, and then to show what the company's missions are, which boil down
to serving the collective interest.
I. The relations between the company and its customers
The relationship between the company and its customers is based on the use of the contract. This can
be verbal or written. The drafting of a contract makes it possible to specify the services when they are
not pure and flexible. The contract can be summary or, on the contrary, provide for numerous clauses.
In the vast majority of cases, the contract is a contract of adhesion that meets the requirements of
speed and uniformity of the essential aspects of the transactions. The contract is very often subject to
the general terms and conditions of one or the other of the parties. The company can either impose its
own terms and conditions or accept those of its partner.
A. Contract law and economic development 1. The negotiated contract
The doctrinal analysis of pre-contracts, the jurisprudence concerning the contractual of the contract.
The jurisprudence bases contractual contributions on doctrinal bibliographical confidence.
2. The CUSTOMER
The customer base is the set of people who maintain contractual relations with the company. It can be,
depending on the case, a civil or commercial clientele. In the case of a commercial enterprise, the
customer is an element of goodwill if it is specific to the merchant and therefore constitutes a personal
customer. The types of customers are: consumer customers, non-professional customers, professional
customers.
3. The State

If we believe in current events, there is a possible relationship between two very different types of
organizations: on the one hand, the firm, understood as an entity that mobilizes labor and capital to
produce market goods and services; on the other hand, a set of political and administrative bodies that
concretely represent the State and that will be called "public authorities". As such, it seems innovative
to examine the treatment of this relationship through a review of the literature, first general and then
more specialized in management sciences. In the latter case, one notion in particular dominates to
qualify the relationship between the company and the State: "lobbying".
This review of the literature first allows us to highlight the conditions for the emergence of a
relationship between the firm and the public authorities representing the State. As soon as the firm is
no longer considered as a closed system but as an organization interacting with its environment, the
State appears as a first-rate interlocutor. Secondly, we note the development of a body specialized in
management sciences which describes the quantitative and qualitative evolutions of this phenomenon
essentially through the study of lobbying.
What does this particular example teach us about inter-organizational relations, their nature and their
process of diffusion and evolution? The relationship between companies and the State is manifested by
an exchange, management sciences privileging by nature the study of a sense of exchange: from
companies to public authorities, in particular lobbying. It involves a variety of actors and involves
multiple modalities. A quick historical analysis would seem to show that this relationship has spread

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from the United States to Europe, perhaps through the finals or joint consulting firms,
certainly through a process of imitation. Subsequently, the content and form of the
company/state relationship adapt to changes in the more general environment
(globalization, European construction, corporate social responsibility, for example).
4. Suppliers
The supplier is an organization that provides a product to the customer (ISO 8402 standard). This
definition is too general, and does not reflect the many relationships that can exist between the
company and suppliers. Companies and suppliers work more in partnership. Here are some
explanations:
There are two main categories of suppliers: operating suppliers and non-operating suppliers.
? There are several types of operating suppliers: suppliers of raw materials or components used in the
manufacture of the product.
? SUBCONTRACTORS from whom the company purchases a transformation or control service.
? Service suppliers, energy suppliers, maintenance equipment suppliers, etc.
There are also investment suppliers, called non-operating suppliers. The company buys its means of
production and equipment of all kinds from them.
? Suppliers of transport, advertising, insurance, temporary workers, etc.
Since the generalization of just-in-time on the whole market, customers, companies and suppliers
often cooperate with the aim of mutual satisfaction. This satisfaction leads to stronger relationships
and earlier product design to improve product quality and enhance service quality. This is CO-
TREATMENT.
The company can also demand quality assurance from its suppliers.
5. The employees
The employee and the company: the individual work relationship.
The employee is linked to the company, his employer, one by one by an individual work relationship.
Moreover, the individual employment relationship is one of the elements of the collective relationship
between the company and its staff. It is these rules that define the rights of workers to collective
bargaining of all their employment conditions, professional training and working conditions and their
social guarantees.
The labor law conceived the employee as an element of the labor force. It was characterized by the
phenomenon of groups, making collective relations predominate, contrary to classical civil law. The
extension of collective aspects was justified by social concerns, the search for a balance of contract,
the legitimization of collective action and the protection of the weak by collective force. The trend
towards individualization of labor law leads to what has been called the legal rehabilitation of the
individual wage.
Moreover, the promotion of the wage, the valorization of individual skills through professional
training, the importance of individual liberties and the recognition of the independence of the wage
earner, which had been destroyed by Taylorism, and the transition to a service economy, necessarily
lead to a subjective right. Individualization is thus marked in the right to training and adaptation, in
leave, in working hours and the notion of chosen time, in the right to expression, in the right to health
and safety, and in the obligation to reclassify.

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Contractual freedom has regained a certain legitimacy, and even forms the basis of
some of the modes of employee protection, in particular through what is known as the
contractual basis. We are thus witnessing a development in the place of the individual
will of the wage in labor law.
6. Shareholders
The creation of a company as a form of business is analyzed as a dissociation between ownership and
management. The holders of shares are the owners of the company but the company is managed by the
managers. When the form of the company is a joint-stock company, the intuitu personae of the holders
of the capital disappears.
The ownership of the shareholders is indirect and limited. The shareholder's situation is in fact that of
a lender of last resort. Moreover, in the institutionalized conception of French company law, the
creation of the legal person operates a clear dissociation between the shareholders and the company's
assets, with the creation of a corporate patrimony and a corporate interest, which has been qualified as
the company's compass, must guide the managers, and the shareholders cannot make their interest
prevail over that of the company. French corporate law is thus different from American corporate law,
which remains fundamentally the same; the shareholders remain the masters of the company, subject
only to the prohibition of waste of corporate assets (waste of corporateasset) and, for listed companies,
subject to compliance with stock exchange law.
This institutionalization of the company in French law results in the penalization of corporate law,
which is a particular aspect of the penalization of French business law. This penalization reflects the
requirement to respect the various interests that make up the corporate interest, the violation of which
results in particular in the abuse of corporate assets. These interests include the interests of creditors,
employees and especially the tax authorities. Some of the most high-profile prosecutions for abuse of
corporate assets have been in the area of political financing, but the most frequent prosecutions are
those that actually punish the violation of tax rules with criminal proceedings for abuse of corporate
assets. Minority actions that are often highlighted are far less frequent, and in fact less frequent, than
actions that have been launched by successors to the directors (such as the ELF case).
The relations between the company and its customers
One possible definition of a company's mission is "the definition of its raison d'être, the supreme
aspiration that it continually strives to achieve". The mission statement is usually a sentence or
paragraph that formulates this purpose in a somewhat vague but enduring form and is therefore a
stable reference point in daily change.
Every organization exists to produce something in its broad environment. This is called its mission, its
primary or ultimate goal. It is also its purpose.
Making profit is one of the main purposes of companies (Mission). However, we must not forget that
other purposes are also possible, such as:
? Satisfying the customer;
? Ensuring income;
? Ensure individual development for its employees;? Make money for its shareholders.
The company's mission in general is also to produce goods and services that the economy needs.
Another definition of the mission is the definition of the raison d'être, the supreme aspiration that it
continually strives to achieve.

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It should be emphasized here that a company's mission is not its vision, because the
vision serves to describe a desired future state. Its statement must therefore be precise
and have a definite validity over time. The vision may need to be changed to adapt to
changing circumstances and in terms, while the mission is the same at the end.
At the beginning of the company, the specific mission is clear over time; it may become less clear as
the company grows and adds new products and markets. It may remain clear but lose the interest of
some managers, just as it may remain clear but lose its relevance.
In addition, the elements of a company's mission are as follows:
? The reason for being;
? The strategy;
? The values;
? Compartments and standards.

Subject General KNOWLEDGE DESC DESC 2012


Performance conditions: Duration: 2 hours Unauthorized documents.
Subject
Using concrete examples of your choice, show the ways and means by which the collective interest
can be brought to the attention of all Cameroonians.
POINT OF CORRECTION
Introduction
Collective interest can be defined as what provides a benefit or what is important to someone, to a
group. Thus, any activity whose accomplishment must be ensured, regulated and controlled by those
in power, because the accomplishment of this activity is indispensable to the realization and
development of social interdependence, can be considered to be in the collective interest. Thus, when
it is of such a nature, it can only be fully realized by the intervention of the government force for
some, for others it is sometimes necessary to trust the civic-mindedness of the population. But we can
then ask ourselves if, in a case where individual interest is confronted with collective interest, what are
the ways and means that can be used to ensure that the collective interest is respected? To answer this
question, we will first of all present the heritage and values that can be considered as being of
collective interest, and then we will show the various means of recourse to force people to respect the
heritage or values of collective interest.
I. Heritage and collective values
In this part, it is a question of showing first of all the difference that exists between particular interest
and general interest, then of the State as guarantor of the general interest, and finally of showing the
general interest as an expression of the general will.
1. Particular interest and general interest
Within society, individuals are often seen as pursuing particular interests that are selfish, and for a
long time this pursuit of individual profit or enjoyment has been denounced in the name of various
moral and/or religious conceptions. But in pursuing selfish ends, individuals are led, as if by an
invisible hand, to satisfy the interests of society. This is the case of an individual who creates a society

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to keep quiet about: business, this business will generate jobs, taxes, increased growth.
F Fiavek, who considers that the State cannot invoke the general interest to justify the
production of public goods or the redistribution of income the only public task in line
with the general interest is to ensure the equality of all before the law and to impose on all the respect
of the same rules of fair conduct.
2. Bearer state and guarantor of the general interest
The general interest is the sum or combination of particular interests, it is. Represented by the State
which is the bearer of the general interest. Bismarck defining the welfare state as a good representative
of this political posture. In theorizing a form of plebiscitary democracy, Weber calls for a true head of
state capable of rising above partisan quarrels and particular interests.
The concept of public service, for its part, has been clarified, which contributes to a better definition of
the general interest. It is generally considered that public service is based on the following principles:
? Principle of continuity, according to which the public service has an obligation to respond
continuously to the needs of users.
? Principle of equality, which implies that users are treated in the same way (for example, mail must
be delivered in the most remote mountain areas in the same way as in the city, the price of electricity is
the same throughout the territory).
? Principle of neutrality, according to which no discrimination should be made on the basis of the
political or religious opinions (for example) of users.
? Principle of mutability, which implies that the published service adapts to circumstances or f
changing needs.
This is how the public service, which is of general order, is at the service of all Cameroonians: as a
service we can cite hospitals, police, administrative services etc.
3. Collective interest and general will
In democratic systems, the general will is reflected in the responsibility of the state to safeguard the
collective interest of the people. Thus the general will must prevail over the individual interests of
men.
The general will is the legitimate foundation of sovereignty, it is formed only if certain conditions are
respected:
? It must concern a question of common interest. It can be a question of building a road through a
village or the exploitation of an indigenous forest on behalf of the State.
? It must be based on a majority decision of the citizens who must all be consulted. Citizens are very
often consulted through an election or referendum.
? It is based on equality: all citizens must be treated equally. Fundamentally, in the perspective of the
Enlightenment, the general will is based on the behavior of citizens enlightened by reason. Diderot
writes for example: "The general will is in each individual a pure act of understanding that reasons in
the silence of passions about what man can demand from his fellow man and what his fellow man is
entitled to demand from him".
However, the State may find itself in a situation where it is called upon to use means and ways to
ensure that the collective interest is respected.
II. Law and force: two remedies for the collective interest

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In our current democracies the use of force is interpreted as an act of barbarism and
brutality,
However, it should not be forgotten that the State uses it as a means of legal repression when the
collective interest is at stake. We will present law and force as two means used to defend and
safeguard the collective interest.
1. The law for the defense of collective interests
In all societies of the world, there is an order, an organization that governs the rules of functioning and
living together. It is the set of these laws that allows every individual in the group to benefit from the
goods and to flourish within the society.

Thus the Cameroonian government had to take a number of measures following the greyhound riots
that were caused by a rise in the price of life. These laws and measures relate to a homologation of the
prices of basic necessities such as rice, soap, flour ... these different measures therefore ensure that
everyone can have access to these products. The collective interest is thus defended by a set of
measures and laws that guarantee everyone a well-being in society.
Similarly, the law creating the CONAC (National Anti-Corruption Commission) aims at an objective
use of public resources. This is also a means of defending and preserving the collective interest.
Furthermore, laws are not the only means available to the State; it can also resort to the use of force.
2. Force: a coercive means of the State
Today's states have means of repression that use force and coercion to get their citizens to bend to their
will. 11 These are the police and the army. By using the police and the army, governments can
maintain order, peace and calm; this is why, when riots, wars, natural disasters are observed in a
country, the first people who arrive on the ground are the forces of law and order so that things are
done in the interest of all. The State thus has a means of defending the collective interest. Its use was
again perceptible during the recent joint controls organized since the beginning of April 2013 by the
Minister of Transport Mr. NKIIJ Robert, in order to ensure a safe transport carried out by
professionals of the sector of a pan and to ensure that the various owners of vehicles are in possession
of their various parts on the other hand. Similarly, when the state decides to expel illegal residents of
an area, it does so under the guidance of law enforcement agencies which are in fact the arm of the
state.
Conclusion
At the end of our work, where it was a question of showing the different means that the State can use
to defend the collective interest, we first presented the notion of collective interest and particular
interest, then we showed the relationship that exists between the general interest and the general will
and the one that guarantees it. In the second part of the paper we presented laws and force as the two
means that embody the power of the Etal and its capacity to defend the collective interest. It is clear to
us, therefore, that every State must make use of them because it acts according to its regalian mission,
which is to defend collective interests. In this logic, even in modern democracies, the collective
interest can lead governments to use force which is in contradiction with the respect of liberties which
would like a certain "diplomacy" in the uses.

Subject General KNOWLEDGE DESC DESC 2013


Performance conditions: Duration: 2 hours Unauthorized documents.

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Subject
Using concrete examples of your choice, tell how SENAT is useful for Cameroonians.
POINT OF CORRECTION
Introduction
According to the Constitution of 18 June 1996, the President of the Senate is the second most
important person in the country. The Senate is the upper chamber of the Cameroonian Parliament
according to the bicameral system. It holds the legislative power together with the National Assembly.
It is the representative of the local authorities and its establishment in 2013 will, together with the
National Assembly, bring a plus to the better management of public institutions. We can then ask
ourselves what contribution the Senate can make to Cameroon? To answer this question, we will first
introduce the Cameroonian Senate and list its functions; then we will show the importance of the
Senate in the lives of Cameroonians.
I. The SENAT: institutional organ of a democracy
In this sub-section, we will present the conditions of eligibility for the Senate and the missions
assigned to it.
1. Conditions of eligibility and composition of the senate
Candidates for the office of Senator, as well as personalities appointed to the said office by the
President of the Republic, should be forty (40) years of age at the date of election or appointment. The
modalities for the election of senators are laid down in the Electoral Code: the candidate for senatorial
elections must be Cameroonian and know how to speak and write at least one of the official languages,
must belong to a political party and be registered in an electoral list. He must also pay a deposit of 1
000 000 FCFA. Elected for five years like the Deputies, the Senate represents the decentralized local
authorities. It is precisely in this capacity that Senators are elected by indirect universal suffrage since
each region is entitled to 10 Senators, 03 of whom are appointed by the Head of State, and 07 others
by the municipal councillors of each region.
2. Mission of the senator
With the exception of voting a motion of censure, senators have powers identical to those of deputies
in terms of control of the government. They vote on bills such as the recent bill allowing the president
of the republic to ratify the agreement between the United Nations and Cameroon on respect for the
environment. One week out of four sessions is reserved as a priority for this control, as well as for the
evaluation of public policies.
The Senate has the declared vocation to represent the local authorities, in fact, the indirect poll and the
electoral division of the Senate strongly favour rural territories and small communes. This is why
several delegates come from key communes even though they represent only a minority of the
Cameroonian population.
The concept of the Senate is therefore to clarify both in its conditions of eligibility and its missions;
we will therefore focus on the contribution of the Senate in the daily life of Cameroonians and
especially what it can bring to the government itself.
II. The impact of SENAT
In this sub-section, it is a question for us of showing the importance of the senate in the daily life of
the people.
Cameroonian and its importance in good governance.

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1. Impact in the lives of Cameroonians


The establishment of the senate will improve the lives of Cameroonians because the
senate, as the representative of local communities, is the best body to defend the interests of all strata
and in a specific way. That is to say that the senator of the North-West will draft bills in accordance
with the needs of the people of the North-West, it is the same for that of the coast. It is also obvious
that the decentralized localities are almost subject to the same difficulties. So the bills voted by the
senate will integrate the realities of the localities.
2. Impact on good governance
One of the senate's missions is to control the government's actions. This means that the senate
monitors and secures the government's action. If the government wants to take decisions that go
against the constitution, the senate has the mission to call it to order. It also evaluates public policy. In
other words, the government's program is judged and monitored by the upper chamber. This
monitoring makes it possible to improve the management of public affairs and the public service from
which the population benefits. It can therefore be said that the senate has a positive impact on good
governance in the sense that government policies are evaluated and then monitored by the upper
chamber of the senate.
Conclusion
At the end of this work where i! was to show the impact that the senate can have in the lives of
Cameroonians, we first of all presented the senate as well as the conditions of candidacy and its
composition; In the second part of the paper, we showed how the senate is important in the lives of
Cameroonians, as in the management of public areas and set vices It seems obvious that the senate has
a capital importance in emerging countries such as Cameroon, However, the question of its
impartiality remains because for it to be effective and bring the desired results, the constitution of the
senate must be as representative as possible so that the general interest can prevail over the interests of
individuals or a minority.

Subject General KNOWLEDGE DESC DESC 2014


Performance conditions: Duration: 2 hours Unauthorized documents.
Subject
The Children's Parliament session emphasized the need for education for children. To show from
concrete examples the benefits of children's education.
POINT OF CORRECTION
Introduction
Cameroon ratified the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) in January 1993 and the African
Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACRWCWC) in 1996. These two international legal
instruments commit States Parties to develop mechanisms at the national level for the participation of
children in order to take into account their views on issues affecting them. Also with a view to making
more effective the implementation of this concern related to the right of children to participation. Has
it been organized since 1998 by the Ministry of Social Affairs (MINAS) with the support of its
national and international partners, as part of the celebration of the Day of the African Child (DAC) on
June 16 of each year, a parliamentary session reserved for children called the Children's Parliament
(CP). It is fashionable to ask whether the Children's Parliament raises issues related to the
development of children, such as the issue of education, what is the benefit of giving importance to it?
In other words, what are the benefits of educating children? To answer this question, we will first

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present the children's parliament from its objectives and the modalities of selection of
junior deputies, then we will show the advantages of children's education for a country
like Cameroon.
I. THE CHILDREN'S PARLIAMENT: A FRAMEWORK FOR YOUTH EXPRESSION
1. The objectives
The Children's Parliament aims to be a platform for exchanges between children and decision-makers
and contributes to the effective implementation of articles 12, 13 and 14 of the CRC and the CADBEE
by offering children the opportunity to participate in the life of the city by expressing their opinion on
the problems that concern them through questions, but also proposals for answers and resolutions. Its
objectives can be grouped into two groups:
a. General objective
The overall objective of the Children's Parliament is to provide children with an appropriate
framework to ensure the exercise of their rights to expression and participation. In this way, they can
come together and clearly present their key concerns to policy makers. b. Specific objectives
The specific objectives of the parliament are more numerous and focus on the shortcomings observed
in the daily lives of young people. They include the following:
? To promote and popularize the rights of the Child.
? To teach children the cult of effort, tolerance and respect for others.
? To bring children to formulate and freely express their concerns and to give their opinion on the
issues that concern them.
? To promote the inclusion of relevant children's concerns in national policies and programs.
2. 2. Selection of Junior Members of Parliament and activities of Junior Members of Parliament
a. Selection Criteria
Junior deputies are elected by their peers, children in or out of school and must be highly
representative of both sexes (girls and boys), of different categories of children: disabled (motor, blind
and deaf-mute, albinos), indigenous populations, centers (social, multi-functional or for the promotion
of women and the family). In addition, they must be between 9 and 18 years of age, and be among the
best in their class, structure or category, in order to be able to be a valid spokesperson for them. As
such, the file of the selected DJ must include copies of his or her report cards for the last three school
years and the first term of the current year. b. Activities of Junior MPs
During their stay in Yaounde and while waiting for the session that concerns them, the Junior Deputies
engage in educational, recreational and socio-cultural activities under the supervision of professionals
as well as some former Junior Deputies.
At the educational level: they are built by the supervisors on current themes: Rights and
Obligations of the child, social scourges, STI/HIV/AIDS, good governance, parent-child relations.
Playful and socio-cultural: They are occupied by various activities (modern and traditional dances,
plastic arts, songs, excursions, etc.).
In addition, and with a view to their passage to the National Assembly, they choose and reformulate
the questions to be addressed to members of the Government as well as simulations in order to select
those who will present them to the National Assembly.

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II. THE ADVANTAGES OF EDUCATING CHILDREN IN CAMEROON


Cameroon has joined the Third World countries that suffer from a glaring lack of
schooling. It is besides
One of the reasons why, alarmed, the international community set the 2035 goal to meet the world's
basic education needs. The benefits of educating children are many and that is why every country
invests a lot of money in the training of its population. We will group the benefits into two classes:
1. Personal benefits
Personal benefits are linked to the future of the children themselves. Among the personal benefits, we
can cite the following:
? Education provides children with the skills and tools to better support themselves and their loved
ones in the future.
? Education helps fight the spread of diseases such as HIV/AIDS, reduce maternal and child mortality,
and improve the health of populations.
2. Benefits to society
The benefits to society are those that are beneficial to the state because the results ensure social
stability and development. We can cite the following:
? Education promotes transparency, good governance and stability, and it helps fight corruption,
because by raising awareness and informing, one builds a sustainable state and ensures good
management of public affairs.
? Education contributes to improving working conditions and performance and is the breeding ground
for sustainable and viable economic growth for today and tomorrow, because it is by educating and
training children that we can ensure the next generation in the management of society. Education is
therefore the key to all development and progress.
Conclusion
In conclusion, talking about children's education and showing its necessity for Cameroon, led us to
present first of all the children's parliament because of the objectives of the parliament and the
modalities of selection, then we showed the personal advantages and the benefits to society of
children's education. We can therefore conclude by saying that education is the key to the development
of any society. However, the process must not be limited to education alone, but professional
integration must be the next stage of training, because after training comes the restitution of training,
in other words, professionalization.

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PART 2: ECONOMIC ESSAY


PAST QUESTION

Subject of Economic Essay 2010


Performance conditions: Duration: 3 hours Unauthorized documents.
Subject
An economic journalist makes the following statement: "The Company must serve the collective
interest". You will discuss this statement by illustrating your analysis with concrete examples of your
choice.

Subject of Economic Essay 2011


Performance conditions: Duration: 3 hours Unauthorized documents.
Subject
In January 2011, the government organized in Ebolowa, Southern region, the Agropastoral comice,
this rural festival has revalued agriculture as a basis for the economic development of the country.
Using concrete examples of your choice, show the means and strategies by which Cameroon can
develop its agriculture.

Subject of Economic Essay 2012


Performance conditions: Duration: 3 hours Unauthorized documents.
Subject
Using concrete examples of your choice, show the conditions, strategies and means by which
Cameroon can become emergent by 2035.

Subject of Economic Essay 2013


Performance conditions: Duration: 3 hours Unauthorized documents.

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Subject
Using concrete examples of your choice, show the advantages and disadvantages of
the free movement of goods and personnel in the CEMAC zone.

Subject of Economic Essay 2014


Performance conditions: Duration: 3 hours Unauthorized documents.
Subject
Show, using concrete examples of your choice, the economic benefits of participating in the World
Cup for a country like Cameroon.

ECONOMIC ESSAY CORRECTION

Subject of Economic Essay 2010


Performance conditions: Duration: 3 hours Unauthorized documents.
Subject
An economic journalist makes the following statement: "The Company must serve the collective
interest". You will discuss this statement by illustrating your analysis with concrete examples of your
choice.
POINT OF CORRCTION
Introduction
Enterprise is a complex concept with definitions that vary depending on the field of study. On the
economic level, we define it as an economic organization, of a determined legal form, bringing
together human, material, immaterial and financial means to produce goods and services intended to
be sold on a market to make a profit. The journalist's assertion that we are analyzing here places us in
the current debate concerning the interests of the company. The trends, which vary according to the
dominant ideology, reveal two approaches in the in-depth analysis of the company: the social
approach and the economic approach. In this regard and in view of the results produced by a company
such as AES-SONEL in Cameroon, can we say that the only role of companies is to serve the
expectations of its stakeholders? The problem raised is of unquestionable importance in the current
business context. Also, in the analysis, we will see issues such as a social system (I), but these must be
complemented by the economic aspect without which the company could not survive (II).
I. THE FIRM IS A SOCIAL SYSTEM
A. Internal personal interests
1. Employees
2. The leaders
B. The interests of external resources
1. The customers

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2. Suppliers
3. The State
4. Trade unions
II. THE ENTERPRISE IS AN ECONOMIC SYSTEM
A. Search for gain

1. Minimization of costs
2. Reduction of manual labor
B. Main actors in environmental degradation
1. Pollution, deforestation
2. Increasing social inequalities

Subject of Economic Essay 2011


Performance conditions: Duration: 3 hours Unauthorized documents.
Subject
In January 2011, the government organized in Ebolowa, Southern region, the Agropastoral comice,
this rural festival has revalued agriculture as a basis for the economic development of the country.
Using concrete examples of your choice, show the means and strategies by which Cameroon can
develop its agriculture.
POINT OF CORRECTION
Introduction
Africa in general has been experiencing unprecedented population growth and transformation
dynamics in recent decades. Looking at this evolution, only one question comes to mind: how and
where will the few million additional inhabitants of Africa live by 2020? In order to withstand the
shock of population growth, Africa must triple its agricultural production by 2050. Many scientists
believe that the African Green Revolution can only be a doughnut.
In Cameroon, the agricultural sector employs about 70% of the working population and accounts for
40% of export earnings. It remains an important part of the Cameroonian economy (20% to 30% of
GDP). As far as agriculture is concerned, most agricultural activities are organized and implemented
by family farms, which are the most important form of production within the family economy in rural
areas.
The issue of agricultural development, a relevant subject of reflection to which scientific groups are
constantly working in full awareness that, as for all countries, Cameroon will only be able to take off
with this prerequisite. Everything must be done to reduce extreme poverty and hunger. This is what
could well justify the role of the agropastoral comice which was created a long time ago but has had
difficulty taking off. A genesis of the comice will make it possible to make a general statement on
Cameroonian agriculture, to highlight its role in order to identify strategies that will enable Cameroon
to develop well in the years to come.

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? History of the comice


Contrary to the last shows Agric including 1973 in Buea, 1974 in Ngaoundéré, 1977 in
Bafoussam, 1981 in Bertoua, 1984 in Bamenda, 1987/88 in Maroua and 2011 in Ebolowa, the main
concern of the comic was to increase by the change that such an event would bring to the lives of its
citizens and the importance to the life - thread of our economy.
In fact, all comments agreed that the Agric show is a cause of pride for everyone who attended the
presentation of agricultural and livestock products who came with Cameroonians from different
regions to showcase and exhibit their know-how. The fruits of the earth, the richness of the forest,
animals, birds, works of hand, were available for people to see and appreciate the products from
Cameroon, nicknamed Africa in miniature.
? Goal of the comic

It was created by a presidential decree in 1973 in Buea. Its primary objective is to intensify
agricultural production in Cameroon and to stimulate all farmers to work harder. The initiative also
aimed to ensure the development of the host cities' infrastructure in terms of health, education,
sanitation, roads, rehabilitation, urbanization and many other facilities. Thus, the daily mission of
farmers is to make every effort to ensure our food security, create jobs in rural areas, reduce our
imports and boost exports of agricultural products for our agriculture in the broadest sense, in order to
play its role as the driving force of the national economy.
I. OBSERVATION: IN GENERAL

ESSEC 2020 ....................................................................................................................................................... 1


PREFACE ........................................................................................................................................................... 3
CONTENTS ........................................................................................................................................................ 4
SECTION A: CLASS REMINDER ........................................................................................................................... 7
PART 1: GENERAL KNOWLEDGE .......................................................................................................................... 7
CHAP 1: METHODOLOGY OF GENERAL KNOWLEDGE AND ECONOMIC ESSAY SUBJECTS .............................. 8
CAHP 2: SOME THEMATIC AREAS CURRENT ................................................................................................. 19
PART 2: MATHEMATICS COURSES ..................................................................................................................... 41
CHAP 1: Probability reminders ..................................................................................................................... 41
CHAP 2: SEQUENCES AND SERIES ................................................................................................................. 47
CHAP 3: REMINDERS ON FUNCTIONS ........................................................................................................... 53
Chapter 4: INTEGRATION .............................................................................................................................. 61
SECTION B: PAST QUESTION AND CORRECTION ............................................................................................. 63
PART 1: GENERAL KNOWLEDGE ........................................................................................................................ 63
PAST QUESTION ............................................................................................................................................ 63
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CORRECTION ........................................................................................................... 64
PART 2: ECONOMIC ESSAY ................................................................................................................................ 75

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PAST QUESTION ......................................................................................................................... 75


ECONOMIC ESSAY CORRECTION ................................................................................................ 76

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