(JUBA) – The Catholic University of South Sudan has appointed Rev. Brother Bruno Dada as its new Vice Chancellor, with a strong directive from Church leadership to uphold the institution’s Catholic identity and academic mission. The appointment was made official in a letter dated 15 July 2025, signed by Cardinal Stephen Ameyu Martin Mulla, who serves as the Chancellor of the University and President of the Sudan and South Sudan Catholic Bishops’ Conference (SSSCB).
Rev. Bro. Dada will begin his five-year term on 1 September 2025, starting with the 2025–2026 academic year. His appointment follows the long service of Rev. Dr. Fr. Mathew Pagan, who led the university as Vice Chancellor for 12 years. Before his new role, Rev. Bro. Dada served as Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs at the same university.
Cardinal Ameyu emphasised that the new Vice Chancellor’s role would be essential in promoting Catholic values, academic excellence, and the intellectual and spiritual formation of students. He cited Canon Law, which underlines the need for university leadership to be morally upright, academically qualified, and aligned with Church teachings. Leadership, he said, should be “outstanding in character, virtue, and talent” and dedicated to the mission of the Church.
According to the Cardinal, the Bishops’ Conference expects Rev. Bro. Dada to further develop academic programmes, encourage a strong intellectual culture, and ensure that Catholic values are present in all areas of university life. The university is expected to remain faithful to its founding principles, even as it continues to grow and expand its influence.
A formal handover ceremony is expected to take place soon, supervised by Bishop Christian Carlassare, Chairperson of the Commission for Catholic Education. Bishop Carlassare is also the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Bentiu and Apostolic Administrator of Rumbek Diocese.
Founded in 2008, the Catholic University of South Sudan is one of the first private universities in the country. It plays a vital role in shaping the academic and ethical foundations of future leaders in South Sudan. With campuses in Juba and Wau, it provides higher education rooted in Catholic social teaching and remains a significant pillar in the country’s developing education sector.