Vice President Wani Igga Lays Foundation Stone for University of Yei

(YEI RIVER COUNTY) – South Sudan’s Vice President for the Economic Cluster, Dr James Wani Igga, on Tuesday laid the foundation stone for the proposed University of Yei at the former UNMISS compound, marking a significant milestone in efforts to expand higher education opportunities in the region.

The ceremony brought together government officials, religious leaders, members of parliament, ministers, traditional authorities, students and residents who witnessed the launch of a project widely seen as a catalyst for education and development in Yei River County.

Speaking during the event, Central Equatoria State Governor Emmanuel Adil Anthony commended Dr Wani Igga for attending the ceremony and expressed gratitude to the national government for approving the establishment of the university.

Governor Adil urged residents to maintain peace and stability, saying a secure environment is essential for development and investment in education and other sectors. He also revealed plans to renovate schools across Yei River County and assured teachers that their salaries would be paid on time.

The governor noted that the rehabilitation of schools and health facilities would require close collaboration between the government and parent-teacher associations to improve service delivery.

Yei River County Commissioner Samuel Henry Malimbo announced that the land title for the University of Yei had been secured, describing it as a major step toward the institution’s development.

He praised President Salva Kiir Mayardit and Vice President James Wani Igga for supporting the initiative and participating in the foundation-laying ceremony.

Religious leaders welcomed the project, describing it as a positive investment in the future of the country’s youth. Emeritus Bishop Hillary Adeba of the Episcopal Church of South Sudan said the occasion was a historic moment for Yei and expressed confidence that the project had received God’s blessing.

Students attending the event called on the government to increase investment in education and create more opportunities for young people. Lucy Kanyonga, a student at Emmanuel Model Senior Secondary School, appealed for expanded support to girls’ education through scholarships and other educational assistance programmes.

Meanwhile, Central Equatoria State Legislative Assembly member Daniel Lokoroto called for greater investment in health and education services, while commending local authorities for efforts to improve security and development in Yei River County.

Local leaders and residents say the proposed University of Yei has the potential to expand access to higher education and create new opportunities for young people across Yei and neighbouring areas. However, the project will require sustained government commitment, adequate funding, infrastructure development and institutional planning before the university becomes fully operational.