(Aweil) – Star International University has graduated 90 students from its campuses in Aweil and Juba during its fourth commencement ceremony, marking another step forward for higher education in South Sudan.
The ceremony, attended by families, university staff, and senior government officials, celebrated the achievements of students who completed their studies despite ongoing social and economic challenges. The event reflected the institution’s growing presence across regions and its role in producing professionals for the country’s workforce.
Speaking at the event, Senior Presidential Advisor Kuol Manyang Juuk urged graduates to focus on creating employment opportunities through innovation in business and agriculture. He encouraged the class of 2025 to pursue entrepreneurship and self-reliance rather than depend entirely on government jobs, which remain limited across South Sudan.
The Chancellor of Star International University expressed pride in the achievements of the graduating class and praised their resilience. He said the students had shown determination and discipline, especially given the limited infrastructure and economic constraints facing many families.
The Chancellor reaffirmed the university’s commitment to providing quality education across South Sudan and encouraged new students to join in the upcoming academic years. He noted that the institution is continuing to grow its course offerings to respond to the country’s demand for skilled professionals.
This year’s graduating cohort included students from a wide variety of academic backgrounds, including business administration, public health, education, and information technology. The diversity of the programmes demonstrates the university’s efforts to provide training in key sectors needed for national development.
The joint participation of students and guests from both the Aweil and Juba campuses underlined the university’s aspiration to become a national institution with broad regional reach. Family members and local community leaders attended the ceremony with pride, many expressing joy at seeing their children or relatives complete university—some as the first graduates in their family.
The celebration highlighted the progress being made in the education sector in South Sudan, despite ongoing obstacles related to funding, infrastructure, and access. With more universities now operating across the country, higher education is slowly becoming more accessible to a larger number of students.
Star International University’s leadership noted that the future of South Sudan depends on investing in young people and equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to lead in both public and private sectors.