Juba, South Sudan – February 26, 2026
The University of Juba, in collaboration with key government ministries and development partners, officially launched the Inclusive Education Resource Centre (IERC) at its Main Campus—the first facility of its kind in South Sudan.
The centre was inaugurated under the theme, “A Vibrant Space Where People Can Come to Learn About Disability Inclusion and Technology,” marking a significant milestone in promoting inclusive education nationwide. The event brought together representatives from government institutions, development partners, civil society organizations, the diplomatic community, and students.
The initiative is a joint effort between the University and partners including the Ministry of General Education and Instruction, the Ministry of Gender, Child and Social Welfare, Light for the World, Save the Children International, Education Cannot Wait, and UNICEF, among others.
Speaking at the launch, Hon. Esther Ikere Eluzai, Undersecretary in the Ministry of Gender, Child and Social Welfare, underscored the importance of inclusive education initiatives. She highlighted that programmes supported by Light for the World operate under the motto “Leave No Child Behind” and have already established 13 centres across the country. She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to expanding similar centres to all ten states of South Sudan and acknowledged the continued support of development partners.
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Juba, John A. Akec, commended the collaborative efforts that led to the establishment of the centre. He emphasized that partnerships are essential in advancing inclusive education and noted that the IERC demonstrates what can be achieved through collective commitment.
Also addressing the gathering, Lothar Jaschke, Deputy Head of the European Union Delegation, welcomed the initiative and highlighted its importance in enhancing accessibility for students with disabilities. He pointed to South Sudan’s ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and stressed the need for continued investment in inclusive education to foster equality and social cohesion.
Mr. Achulube John, Programme Manager for Inclusive Education at Light for the World, reflected on the Memorandum of Understanding signed on March 5, 2025, which paved the way for the centre’s establishment. He explained that the IERC will serve as a hub for inclusive learning by providing assistive technologies, peer mentoring, career guidance, and accessible learning environments. The centre will also support students with visual impairments through Braille and sign language training, curriculum transcription, and awareness initiatives.
Representing students, Mr. Augustino Wudu Elario, Chairperson of the South Sudan Union of Persons with Disabilities (SSUPD), described the centre as a transformative step toward inclusion and called for sustained collaboration to ensure its long-term impact.
Mr. Christopher Nyamandi, Country Director of Save the Children, emphasized that the centre reflects a shared commitment among stakeholders to ensure that every child, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to succeed. He expressed hope that similar initiatives will be replicated in other institutions across the country.
Mrs. Lucy Nyaga, International Director of Programmes at Light for the World, noted that the centre represents a practical step toward implementing inclusive education policies in line with the UNCRPD. She stressed that the initiative reinforces the message that disability should not be a barrier to academic achievement or leadership.
In his closing remarks, Hon. Omot Okony Olok Guon, Undersecretary at the Ministry of General Education and Instruction, highlighted the importance of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals through inclusive and equitable education. He encouraged persons with disabilities to utilize the new facility and called on educators and students to embrace inclusive practices, including learning sign language and Braille.
The launch of the Inclusive Education Resource Centre represents a major step forward in strengthening inclusive education in South Sudan. It underscores the shared commitment of government, academia, and development partners to ensure that no learner is left behind.
The initiative aligns closely with the core values of the University of Juba—inclusiveness, excellence, innovation, and community service—while reinforcing its mission of “Inventing the Future, Transforming Society.”
