The ad hoc committee for the operationalization of Torit University of Science and Technology (TUST), which comprised senior lecturers, officially received the former UNMISS compound and its associated offices from the Government of Eastern Equatoria State on Thursday.
This handover marks a significant step towards realizing the operations of the university, which was established in 2010 after a long period of dormancy.
UNMISS closed its offices in Torit late last year and transferred ownership of the facility and its assets to the state government. Subsequently, the state cabinet resolved to allocate the compound and the buildings within it to Torit University.
Among the assets transferred are two vehicles, a variety of furniture, and essential stationery.
Eastern Equatoria State Information Minister and government spokesperson, Elia John Ahaji, who leads the ministerial committee overseeing the UNMISS compound asset handover, emphasized the state government’s commitment to collaborating closely with the university’s administration to bring TUST to life.
Ahaji urged the ad hoc committee to expedite the university’s opening, highlighting the institution’s potential to serve both the local community and the broader South Sudanese population.
“Today is a remarkable day for the people of Eastern Equatoria and South Sudan. We are marking a significant milestone in our history, as we take the former UNMISS compound and transform it into the Torit University of Science and Technology,” he stated. “Today, we welcome the ad hoc committee that has officially received the facility, and we are thrilled to guide them around the compound.”
The minister said the state government will work with the ad hoc committee to ensure the university becomes operational.
“On behalf of the government of Eastern Equatoria and myself, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the committee for their commitment and also to the Government of South Sudan for their support in making this vision a reality,” he said. “I urge them to accelerate the process; the youth of Eastern Equatoria, many of whom are still struggling in the bushes, are desperate for this university.”
“The operationalization of this institution will help reduce crime in our communities and boost the labor market, enabling our youth to be innovative and contribute positively to our economy.” Minister Ahaji added,
After the handover, TUST vice chancellor Professor Pasquale Tiberio Moilinga expressed his gratitude to Governor Louis Lobong and his entire cabinet for this landmark decision.
“This is truly historic! It is unprecedented for a government to allocate such a significant facility to an educational institution in South Sudan,” he said. “This moment should be celebrated by all.
Professor Moilinga highlighted their ongoing efforts to create academic programs that were previously nonexistent, to officially launch the university this March.
“We initially aimed to start last November but faced some delays. However, we are now dedicated to making this a reality by the end of February or early March, when we anticipate welcoming our first cohort of students,” he stated.
He underscored the collaboration with the government, noting their unwavering support.
“The doors of the government are always open to us. We are on the right path, and the establishment of this university will bring countless opportunities for our youth and the community,” Professor Moilinga said. “The dividends of higher education are vast, and we look forward to reaping them together.”