By Alan Clement
Governor Louis Lobong of Eastern Equatoria, has appealed for Turkish support in education and investment in the State.
During a meeting held at the Turkish embassy on July 31, 2025, the governor highlighted the long-standing diplomatic relationship between South Sudan and Turkey and formally appealed for scholarships especially for the disadvantaged students in the State.
“Turkish support in expanding access to higher education is greatly needed,” Lobong said in a statement adding that the scholarships would significantly benefit vulnerable communities.
Lobong also highlighted the pressing challenges the education sector is facing including making Torit University of Science and Technology, a public institution fully functional. He appealed for assistance with the latter.
Governor Lobong also pointed out numerous investment opportunities that exist in Eastern Equatoria during the meeting citing natural resources such as cement, gum Arabic and also mechanized agricultural opportunities that Turkey can invest in.
Metin Ergin, the Turkish Ambassador to South Sudan, appreciated Lobong’s visit and reaffirmed Turkey’s continued support to South Sudan, particularly through annual scholarship programs.
He confirmed that students from Eastern Equatoria would be considered during the next intake cycle scheduled for February 2026. “The Embassy will note it for the 1st quarter of next year. Every year around February, we advertise scholarship opportunities which have benefited many South Sudanese,” the Ambassador said.
He added that the Embassy will coordinate with Torit University to identify deserving scholarship candidates, and encouraged interest in Turkish language programs offered by the government.
The Turkish Ambassador responded with keen interest regarding investment, revealing that Turkey is exploring trade and import opportunities from the region.
He pledged to consult with the Turkish business counsellor to arrange a preliminary investment assessment mission to Eastern Equatoria, with gum Arabic and large-scale farming identified as sectors of immediate interest.
The meeting reflects Governor Lobong’s focus on diplomatic and developmental engagements during his visit to Juba aimed at forging strategic partnerships for the benefit of Eastern Equatoria State.