Grammar Failures Undermine University of Juba’s Reputation

(Juba) – A recent official notice issued by the University of Juba’s School of Computer Sciences and Information Technology has drawn public attention and criticism over multiple grammar errors, raising concerns about the quality of communication within higher education institutions in South Sudan.

The notice, dated June 18, 2025, was addressed to students enrolled in graduate programs including CSIT (Computer Science and Information Technology), MSAI (Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence), and MSc (Master of Science).

It informed students to present their nationality identity cards and payment receipts in order to access lecture halls. However, several phrases in the document contained basic grammatical mistakes.

The phrase “This notice service to inform…” was identified by critics as one of the clearest examples of poor sentence construction. Additionally, words such as “enquired” were misused in place of more suitable alternatives like “required,” and “post it” appeared instead of “posted.”

These and other errors have sparked online discussions, with many users questioning how such a document could be released without proper editing by an academic institution.

Despite the notice’s intention to provide important logistical updates for graduate students, the focus quickly shifted to the grammar mistakes, especially after the document was circulated widely on social media.

Some commentators described the errors as embarrassing, given that the communication came from a university faculty responsible for training students in science and technology.

Students were informed that registration for the graduate programs would close on Thursday, June 26, 2025, and that classes would begin in the first week of July. A class timetable would be posted on the School of Computer Science’s notice board. The notice was signed by Dr. Moses Matur Chol, the Acting Professor and Graduate Program Coordinator.

The lapse has renewed ongoing concerns about the state of academic communication and English language standards in South Sudan’s higher education institutions.

Education experts note that while technical subject knowledge remains essential, communication standards are equally critical, especially when students are being prepared for both national and international opportunities.

There were no official comments issued by the university regarding the criticism as of press time. The university’s leadership has previously pledged to improve academic quality and institutional standards, but the latest episode has raised questions about whether those efforts are being adequately implemented.

While the issue may seem minor to some, it reveals a deeper challenge within South Sudan’s education system i.e. the need to prioritize language accuracy, professionalism, and institutional accountability in official communication.