Juba, South Sudan – February 12, 2026
The University of Juba, in collaboration with UNESCO and key partners, officially conducted a groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the STVET-VCD Training Facility for Food Science and Technology Diploma Programmes at the University’s Main Campus.
The event marked a significant milestone in strengthening technical and vocational education and training (TVET) in South Sudan, with a focus on advancing skills development in food science and agricultural value chains.
Speaking during the ceremony, Christopher Tombe Louis, Dean of the School of Applied and Industrial Sciences, outlined the project’s objectives. He emphasized that the facility will enhance agricultural value chains, boost productivity, reduce post-harvest losses, and increase farmers’ incomes. The programme will train diploma-level technicians in food quality, microbiology, and engineering, with a strong focus on improving food processing and safety. The facility will also support capacity building through staff development and partnerships with regional institutions.
Yayoi Segi-Vitchek, UNESCO Country Representative in South Sudan, highlighted the importance of the initiative in strengthening technical education and promoting job creation. She commended the University of Juba for its role in developing human capital and advancing innovation through applied sciences. She also expressed appreciation to the African Development Bank for its financial support, as well as the Government of South Sudan and other partners for their contributions.
Representing the contractor, Naod Elias Kallore, Senior Project and Operations Manager at Universal for General Construction, described the project as a top priority for the company and expressed pride in contributing to such a transformative national initiative.
On behalf of the students, Mr. Dabual Duong Wighoal, Chairperson of the Students’ Association in the School of Applied and Industrial Sciences, welcomed the project and noted its potential to benefit students while contributing to the transformation of the agricultural sector.
The Vice Chancellor, John A. Akec, reaffirmed the University’s commitment to economic empowerment and social transformation through education, innovation, and service delivery. He highlighted key challenges related to energy and food preservation, calling for greater investment in electrification and solar energy solutions to support value addition in food processing. Prof. Akec expressed gratitude to the African Development Bank for funding, UNESCO for implementation, the Government for its support, and the contractors for their role in advancing the project.
Also addressing the gathering, Adil Athanasiou, Undersecretary in the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, commended the collaborative efforts behind the project and acknowledged the contributions of development partners, including the World Bank.
Delivering the vote of thanks, Justo Wani Jada, Deputy Vice Chancellor of the University, recognized the contributions of all stakeholders involved. He noted the scale and significance of the project, emphasizing that the facility will not only serve the School of Applied and Industrial Sciences but also benefit other academic units within the University. He further called for maintaining high standards in the utilization of the facility.
The groundbreaking ceremony marks a new chapter in South Sudan’s efforts to advance technical education, promote sustainable development, and stimulate economic growth. The University of Juba continues to play a leading role in fostering innovation and building capacity for national development.
