By Louis Loku
The European Union Ambassador to South Sudan, H.E. Pelle Enarsson, on Tuesday visited the University of Yei campus as part of his official visit to Yei River County, where local authorities reaffirmed their commitment to reopening the institution.
The ambassador was accompanied by the Commissioner of Yei River County, Hon. Samuel Henry Malimbo, and officials from the International Organisation for Migration (IOM).
The delegation toured the university campus and received updates on its current status, rehabilitation efforts, and preparations for its reopening.
Speaking during the visit, Commissioner Malimbo said the Central Equatoria State Government is making steady progress toward reopening the University of Yei, noting that the institution is expected to resume operations once the remaining administrative and logistical requirements are completed.
He said restoring the university would improve access to higher education for students in Yei River County and neighbouring areas while supporting the county’s social and economic recovery following years of conflict.
“The reopening of the University of Yei will provide opportunities for young people to pursue higher education closer to home and contribute to rebuilding the region through education,” Malimbo said.
The commissioner also underscored the importance of partnerships with international development organisations in supporting the recovery of key public institutions.
The visit formed part of the European Union delegation’s broader engagement with local authorities and development partners in Yei River County to assess the progress of recovery initiatives and the condition of essential public institutions.
The University of Yei has remained largely non-operational due to insecurity and conflict that disrupted academic activities in the area.
Authorities say efforts to reopen the institution are part of wider initiatives aimed at restoring education, improving public services, and promoting sustainable development in Western Central Equatoria.