University of Juba Admin. block

Two public universities have confirmed receiving 2.5 million pounds each for operating costs for the next 2 months.

Last month, the Ministry of Higher Education said 10 million pounds had been approved to cover operation costs in the five public universities across the country.

The beneficiaries include the University of Juba, the University of Bahr el Ghazal, the University of Rumbek, the University of Upper Nile, and Dr. John Garang Memorial University of Science and Technology.

The Vice Chancellor of the University of Juba, Professor John Akech, has confirmed the money have been received but said it is “not enough”.

“You know, we use a lot of part-timers, and even those who are teaching more than three courses have to be paid what they call the extra hours,” he said.

“I’ve been saying that the money is not enough. Like I said for, it is not enough for 2 months for the University of Juba,” Akech said.

Prof. Akech has been warning that the university might cease operations this year due to a shortage of funds.

For its part, the University of Bahr el Ghazal has also received 2.5 million pounds.

Professor Samson Wasara, the Vice Chancellor of the university, also confirmed receiving their share.

“We received it, 2.5 million is for two months but actually it is not enough and this is the reality. You know the price is fixed now, especially in Wau,” he said.

Prof. Wasara said his university requires 5 million pounds for operation costs per month.

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“Five public universities likely to close” -Prof. John Akech