By: Emmanuel Mandella
In a bold step toward transforming higher education in the region, the Catholic University of South Sudan, St. John Campus in Yambio, is expanding its academic programs and preparing for a major relocation next academic year, the initiative spearheaded by the Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio, the initiative aims to empower South Sudanese youth with globally competitive education rooted in local values.
Speaking during a high-level meeting held on Tuesday May 14, 2025, the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio, Dr. Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala, commended the University for maintaining high academic standards and playing a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of leaders.
“This university is a beacon of excellence in East Africa, it is fully equipped with the necessary resources, experienced faculty, and a strong academic foundation to prepare our youth for a bright future and we encourage all young people to enroll and take advantage of this life-changing institution,” Bishop Hiiboro said.
As Growing Institution founded in 2019 with ambitious goals, the Catholic University’s St. John Yambio Campus has quickly grown into a respected institution, producing top-performing graduates.
In 2023, its first cohort walked the graduation stage four of them earning first-class honors, while in a second batch has already graduated, and a third is on course to complete their studies by November this year.
In response to increasing demand, Acting Administrator of the institution, Mr. Ginyera Stephen announced that the university is set to relocate to a new, larger campus in August, marking a major milestone in its expansion strategy in Yambio.
“We are discussing how to grow beyond our current three departments to meet the needs of our society,” said Stephen.
He further added that “Through market research and needs assessments, we aim to develop programs that directly benefit our communities, making this a truly community-based university in Western Equatoria State.”
The planned relocation and curricular expansion are designed to introduce more community-centered programs tailored to the realities and aspirations of South Sudanese society.
To honor its graduates and inspire future enrollment, the university will organize a special Thanksgiving prayer ceremony in Juba, uniting alumni and prospective students in a celebration of academic achievement and national pride. The event will double as a promotional campaign to attract more youth into the university’s programs.
In a passionate appeal to students across Western Equatoria and beyond, Stephen urged young people to seize the opportunities being offered.
“We are authentic, we are original, and we provide degrees that allow our graduates to compete globally. Join us at the Catholic University and be part of this transformative journey,” he said.
As South Sudan continues to navigate economic recovery and nation-building, institutions like the Catholic University, St. John Campus in Yambio are stepping up to nurture the skills, knowledge, and leadership necessary for long-term development. With its expanding facilities, dedicated faculty, and a clear vision, the university is fast becoming a cornerstone of academic excellence in the region.
For many young South Sudanese, the path to a brighter future now begins in Yambio the Western Equatoria State Capital.
