By Yiep Joseph
South Sudan is set to expand its public university network after President Salva Kiir Mayardit approved the establishment of three new public universities in Aweil, Kuajok, and Yei.
The decision is expected to increase access to higher education, create more learning opportunities outside the capital, Juba, and support the country’s efforts to develop skilled human resources through regional academic institutions.
A republican order issued by President Kiir and announced on South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC) on Friday outlined changes aimed at strengthening the country’s higher education landscape.
Under the directive, the University of Northern Bahr el Ghazal has been renamed the University of Aweil. The institution will continue serving students in the region while operating under its new identity.
The president also approved the transformation of Kuajok Community College into the University of Kuajok, granting the institution full public university status and paving the way for expanded academic programs and institutional development.
In Central Equatoria State, President Kiir established the University of Yei in Yei River County, adding another public university to the country’s growing higher education system.
The president directed the Higher Education Council and the Transitional National Legislative Assembly to fast-track the legal and administrative steps required to operationalise the institutions.
These include accreditation, governance arrangements, staffing, and the development of necessary university structures.
The Ministry of Finance and Planning was also instructed to allocate funds to support the establishment process, including construction, infrastructure development, and other requirements needed for the universities to begin operations.
Since gaining independence in 2011, South Sudan has faced significant challenges in expanding access to higher education due to limited infrastructure, a shortage of academic staff, and the impact of years of conflict.
The country’s public university system has struggled to meet growing demand as more young people seek opportunities for advanced education and professional training.
The capital, Juba, has traditionally hosted some of the country’s largest higher learning institutions, including the University of Juba, leaving many students from other states facing challenges related to distance, cost, and limited accommodation opportunities.
Over the years, the government has sought to expand higher education institutions across the states to make university education more accessible and promote regional development.
The establishment of additional universities is seen as part of broader efforts to strengthen education, build a skilled workforce, and reduce dependence on institutions concentrated in Juba.
The creation of universities in Aweil, Kuajok, and Yei is expected to provide new opportunities for students, encourage research and innovation, and contribute to economic development in the surrounding communities.
With the latest directive, South Sudan’s higher education sector enters a new phase focused on expanding academic access and building institutions that can serve future generations.