The Government of Western Equatoria State (WES), in partnership with the Catholic Church, has laid the foundation of St. John Catholic University in Yambio, a step towards expanding higher education opportunities in the state.
Bishop Hiiboro appealed to the community to embrace the institution, saying education will empower children, nurture talent, and help the state progress.
“This university is not poison to harm our children or our state; it is an investment in their future,” he said, adding that the institution will start this year with four faculties.
Speaking at the ceremony, Acting Governor Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa joined the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Tambura-Yambio (CDTY), Barani Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala, in celebrating what he described as a success story, a transformation, and a vision for the future of the state and its people.
“An area without a university is still considered illiterate,” Badagbu said. “When a community only has primary and secondary schools, it cannot compete in today’s fast-changing global world driven by technology.”
The acting governor also addressed concerns about land ownership for the project, clarifying that urban land belongs to the government as public property, which can be leased for public or private development.
Several community members welcomed the initiative, saying a university is an institution that transforms lives, equips young people with skills, and contributes to state and national development.
“Education is development, and we must take it seriously,” one resident said. “We should all accept and support the establishment of this university.”
