Upper Nile University, a public university in South Sudan, has completed preparations to resume teaching at its Human Resource Development College in Malakal. The college will reopen after over a decade of disruption due to conflict. Classes are scheduled to begin in the first week of October for the 2026-27 academic year. According to Isaac Deng Akuei, director of the college, lecture halls, textbooks, and teaching staff are ready at the university's main campus in Malakal.
The university had originally been based in Malakal but relocated to Juba after conflict broke out in South Sudan in December 2013. The Human Resource Development College was initially relocated to Juba, where it admitted students for diploma courses. Akuei stated that plans to return the university's operations fully to Malakal had faced difficulties. However, the institution decided to resume diploma courses in Malakal to provide local students with access to higher education.
The college has admitted 92 students for diploma courses, with registration and orientation set to begin on Monday. Students who missed the initial application deadline will be allowed to apply directly through the university. The college will offer seven diploma courses, including public administration, computer science, and business administration. Akuei mentioned that most tuition fees will not exceed 1.5 million South Sudanese pounds, considering the financial difficulties faced by many families.
Despite preparations being complete, the university still faces challenges. Some of its dormitories are occupied by members of the organised forces, and the university is working with the Upper Nile state government to have the facilities vacated and prepared for students. Additionally, the university is addressing shortages of water and electricity with other stakeholders. Akuei expressed the university's commitment to providing students with a conducive learning environment.
Residents in Malakal have welcomed the university's decision to reopen the college. Aban Kwang, a resident of Upper Nile State, stated that many young people had lost opportunities to pursue higher education during the conflict. The return of the university is expected to expand educational opportunities and contribute to social and economic development in the region.
Teresa Ojok, another resident, expressed her support for the university's reopening, citing its potential to provide young people with access to higher education. The university's decision to offer diploma courses in Malakal is seen as a step towards addressing the educational needs of local students. With classes set to begin soon, students are expected to take advantage of this opportunity to resume their studies.
The reopening of the Human Resource Development College in Malakal marks a significant milestone for Upper Nile University and the local community. As the university begins its operations, it is expected to play a vital role in shaping the future of students in the region. With a focus on providing accessible and affordable education, the university aims to empower young people and contribute to the region's development.
Key points
- Upper Nile University to reopen Human Resource Development College in Malakal, offering diploma courses to local students.
- The university has admitted 92 students for diploma courses, with classes set to begin in the first week of October.
- The reopening of the college is expected to expand educational opportunities and contribute to social and economic development in the region.
