(JUBA) – The University of Juba is set to establish a ground satellite station, as South Sudan and Israel move to deepen cooperation in emergency medical training and space science.
A senior Israeli diplomat visited Juba this week to review progress on several joint initiatives, according to officials.
The first aid training is being facilitated through MASHAV, the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ agency for international development cooperation.
An expert from Magen David Adom, Israel’s national emergency medical and disaster response organisation, is conducting the course, officials said.
The course is for South Sudan Red Cross trainers drawn from Juba and all states.
Participants are learning practical techniques to respond to injuries and save lives, according to the programme outline.
The training uses readily available materials found in homes, markets, streets and other everyday settings.
This approach is particularly useful where standard first aid equipment is unavailable.
The meeting also reviewed scientific cooperation involving the University of Juba and the Space Science Academy.
The collaboration follows two to three years of lectures, courses and online workshops, according to officials.
These have involved students, university staff and other stakeholders.
Work is now beginning towards establishing the ground satellite station at the University of Juba.
The station aims to expand academic and technical opportunities in space science.
The collaboration builds on earlier initiatives.
In June 2024, the Mayardit Academy for Space Sciences at the University of Juba held a one-day seminar on Israel’s space science programme.
The seminar was held in partnership with Israel’s embassy.
The following year, the academy launched South Sudan’s first-ever space science training programme at the university’s STEM Centre.
Professor John Akech, Director of the Mayardit Academy, said the vision behind the programme is practical rather than symbolic.
He said the focus is on using satellites to improve weather forecasting, monitor natural resources and better manage disasters such as floods.
He credited the Israeli government for providing foundational support to the initiative.
Ambassador Gershon Kedar has described the partnership as an extension of the two countries’ historic ties.
He noted that Israel was among the first countries to support South Sudan’s liberation struggle.
He said the collaboration aims to use space technology for human needs, including water management and fighting famine.
Ambassador Kedar met with the Caretaker Minister of Presidential Affairs, Africano Mande Gedima, during his visit.
Minister Gedima briefed the ambassador on progress in preparations for the December elections, according to officials.
He also outlined the outstanding work ahead of the polls.
The ambassador expressed his wishes for peace and stability in South Sudan as the country advances towards elections.
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