Higher education and sustainable development in South Sudan

After gaining independence in 2011, South Sudan has been ravaged by civil war, and the ongoing security crisis has hampered the development of infrastructure and public services. In spite of these challenges, the higher education system has grown rapidly, with five public and 13 private universities now operating. While the flagship University of Juba has gone from strength to strength, a number of smaller private universities have emerged with commercial motivation and dubious levels of quality.

This seminar explores the range of work of South Sudanese universities across teaching, research and community engagement, particularly in relation to thematic areas associated with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the balance between them and gaps in provision.

The speakers will discuss how security risks and lack of resources hamper the day-to-day functioning of institutions and their ability to maximise their potential – yet also how these institutions are making significant contributions in key areas of basic education, health and peace-building.

This event will be particularly useful for researchers, academics and students.

Please note this is a hybrid event and can be joined either in-person or online.

Related links

• Department of Education, Practice and Society
• Centre for Education and International Development