In a bid to strengthen agricultural education in South Sudan, St. John’s Catholic University (SJCU) in Yambio has formed a strategic partnership with Uganda Martyrs University (UMU).
The agreement, formalised following high-level discussions on July 3, centres on agricultural sciences and seeks to develop local capacity using UMU’s well-established expertise.
Fr. Joseph Buchana Kisoga, UMU’s Academic Registrar, confirmed the collaboration’s momentum, noting the swift dispatch of a delegation to Yambio for a seven-day working visit.
“I made a commitment to be here today, and I am pleased to honour that promise,” said Fr. Kisoga during the visit.
Welcoming the Ugandan team, Fr. Dominic Sasa, speaking on behalf of Bishop Edward Hiiboro Kussala of the Tombura-Yambio Diocese, praised Yambio’s peaceful environment and the significance of the partnership.
“Despite the broader challenges facing South Sudan, Yambio remains a beacon of peace. Feel secure and move freely,” he told the guests.
Fr. Sasa also acknowledged the bishop’s vision in paving the way for this academic collaboration, calling it a blessing for the region’s development.
“This initiative brings invaluable knowledge essential for our people’s progress,” he said, expressing full support for the planned activities.
During the intensive week-long mission, SJCU pledged to provide all necessary materials to facilitate UMU’s contribution to curriculum development. A joint statement on July 28 highlighted the partnership as a critical investment in the future of South Sudan’s Western Equatoria State.
The alliance aims to introduce practical, market-oriented training to combat food insecurity, improve livelihoods, and create diverse employment opportunities. As South Sudan faces growing challenges, this cross-border academic effort signals hope, resilience, and a shared commitment to cultivating change through education.
