uba, South Sudan – March 12, 2026
The Senior Management Team of the University of Juba, led by the Vice Chancellor, John A. Akec, and the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Isaac Cleto Rial, conducted an inspection visit to Bajur Campus to assess the progress of an ongoing renovation of a key academic facility.
The renovation project focuses on upgrading a major academic block designed to house two lecture halls—one large and one small—alongside three laboratories and seven offices. The project commenced on November 21, 2025, and is expected to be completed and officially handed over to the University by April 2026.
This initiative aims to ease congestion at the University’s Main Campus, which currently accommodates a rapidly expanding student population of over 40,000 undergraduate and approximately 5,000 postgraduate students. The expansion of facilities at Bajur Campus is therefore a strategic move to enhance the learning environment and strengthen the University’s academic infrastructure.
The project is funded by the African Development Bank and implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organization, with construction works undertaken by Atlantic Construction and General Trading Company.
During the inspection, the management team observed substantial progress in the construction works. Ongoing activities include roofing installation, window fittings, flooring, and partial electrical works, all indicating steady advancement toward the planned completion timeline.
The team toured the facility under the guidance of Salah Khatir Jubarah, Dean of the College of Natural Resources and Environmental Studies, alongside Eng. Denis Wani Santo and representatives of the contractor. The visit enabled University leadership to evaluate the quality of work and engage in technical discussions regarding the renovation.
Speaking during the visit, Professor Akec commended the progress achieved thus far, while also highlighting design considerations related to the large lecture hall. He noted potential challenges concerning visibility for students seated at the back and recommended raising the lecturer’s podium to improve sightlines. This recommendation draws on similar experiences in large lecture halls at the Main Campus, including New Hall One (NH1), New Hall Two (NH2), and New Hall Three (NH3).
Looking ahead, Professor Akec proposed that, upon completion of the renovation, the College of Natural Resources and Environmental Studies could gradually be relocated to Bajur Campus. He suggested that the transition could begin with the Departments of Agriculture and Animal Production, which may form the foundation of a specialized school at the campus.
Bajur Campus, which spans approximately 220 acres of land designated for a university farm, offers a conducive environment for agricultural training, research, and practical learning. The proposed relocation would therefore align academic programs with appropriate facilities and resources.
The Bajur Campus renovation project marks a significant step in the University of Juba’s ongoing efforts to expand its infrastructure, improve teaching and learning conditions, and accommodate its growing student population. Upon completion, the upgraded facility is expected to provide modern lecture halls, laboratories, and office spaces, further enhancing the University’s capacity to deliver quality education, research, and community service.
