Graduation Spirit in South Sudan
On Saturday, the University of Juba capped its 27th commencement, conferring over 280 degrees before dignitaries and cheering families.
Vice President’s Rallying Call
Representing President Salva Kiir, Vice President Josephine Lagu Yanga praised the graduates and urged them to channel fresh knowledge into nation building, stressing that education remains the surest path to collective prosperity.
Professionals in High Demand
The vice president listed doctors, lawyers, engineers, scientists and teachers as sectors facing acute shortages, noting that South Sudan’s reconstruction requires home-grown expertise more than imported consultancy.
Student Voices and Aspirations
Several graduates interviewed expressed commitment to return to rural counties, citing a desire to improve healthcare, modernise agriculture and mentor younger pupils, a sentiment officials highlighted as evidence of evolving civic duty among the youth.
University of Juba in Numbers
Established in 1975, the public institution today hosts about 40,000 learners across 23 schools, three colleges, four institutes and seven specialised centres, cementing its standing as a pillar of higher learning in the region.
Government Support and Next Steps
The presence of senior officials, including Higher Education Minister Madut Biar Yel and Presidential Advisor Kuol Manyang Juuk, underscored state backing for academia; authorities signalled forthcoming investments in research facilities and scholarship schemes to retain talent at home.
A Future Written by Graduates
As diplomas were raised skyward, the message was clear: South Sudan’s next chapter will be shaped not just by government policy but by these newly minted professionals willing to convert classroom insight into tangible national progress.