By Julia Martin Makuac
More than 700 students have graduated from Rumbek University of Science and Technology during its second cohort ceremony held at Freedom Square in Rumbek on Monday, 13 April 2026.
A total of 796 graduates received qualifications across various colleges, including the College of Economic and Social Studies, the College of Education, and the College of Rural Development and Community Studies. Male graduates significantly outnumbered females, with 717 men and 79 women completing their studies.
The College of Economic and Social Studies produced the highest number of graduates, with 297 male and 25 female students earning degrees. In comparison, 133 male and 21 female students obtained diplomas, bringing the total to 475 graduates.
In the College of Education, 123 male and 9 female students graduated, totaling 132. Meanwhile, the College of Rural Development and Community Studies awarded bachelor’s degrees to 47 male and 6 female students, while 42 males and 10 females received diplomas, making a total of 105 graduates.
The College of Graduate Studies recorded 98 male and 5 female graduates, bringing its total to 103.
Speaking during the ceremony, Vice President for the Service Cluster, Hussein Abdelbagi Akol, delivered a message from President Salva Kiir Mayardit emphasizing that South Sudan can achieve excellence through knowledge and hard work. He noted that the government’s priorities include stabilizing the economy and preparing for the general elections scheduled for December 2026.
He stressed that peace and unity are essential to achieving these goals and urged all parties to reject violence.
Abdelbagi also revealed that President Kiir had directed the transfer of ownership of the Rumbek Secondary School building to the university. The school will be relocated to a new site in accordance with the presidential decree.
Presidential envoy Adut Salva Kiir Mayardit underscored the importance of education, announcing the donation of a modern, fully equipped science and technology library to the university. She said the facility will enhance research and promote academic excellence.
Lakes State Governor Madhang Majok Meen highlighted challenges faced by academic staff deployed from the national government, noting their distance from families and the need for additional support. He assured that the state government will ensure their safety and protect their rights.
Minister of Higher Education Madut Biar encouraged graduates to become job creators rather than job seekers, citing the limited availability of formal employment opportunities despite ongoing government efforts.
Representing the graduates, Angelina Adhel Malual called on the national government to expand employment opportunities by attracting foreign investment, noting that public institutions alone cannot absorb the growing number of graduates.
The ceremony drew high-level officials from national and state governments, representatives from local and international organizations, community leaders, and religious figures.