UNESCO, in collaboration with the University of Juba, the Ministries of General Education and Higher Education, Science and Technology, and the African Development Bank, has marked a key milestone in South Sudan’s skills development and agricultural sector by breaking ground on a new technical and vocational education and training (TVET) center at the University of Juba. The center will form part of the School of Industrial and Applied Sciences and is being constructed under the Support to Technical, Vocational Education and Training for Value Chain Development (STVET-VCD) project. The groundbreaking ceremony brought together government officials, university leadership, students, development partners, and construction partners.
Speaking at the event, UNESCO’s Head of Office in South Sudan, Yayoi Segi-Vltchek, emphasized that the groundbreaking represents a strong partnership and a shared commitment to investing in the future of South Sudanese youth. The University of Juba’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. John Apuruot Akec, highlighted that the project will strengthen the agricultural value chain from seed to final product while equipping graduates with the skills needed to contribute meaningfully to the country’s development. Student representatives welcomed the initiative, noting its potential to address food security challenges and transform the agriculture sector.
Dr. Adil Athanasio Surur, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology, expressed gratitude to all partners, emphasizing the role of young people in driving national growth and prosperity. Implemented by UNESCO in partnership with the Government of South Sudan and the University of Juba and funded by the African Development Bank, the STVET-VCD project aims to improve access to quality, middle-level technical skills, with a focus on agriculture. The new center is expected to enhance practical learning opportunities and strengthen the university’s capacity to deliver training aligned with labor market needs.
Agriculture is central to livelihoods and food security in South Sudan, supporting around 80 percent of the population. Despite its importance, gaps in skills and infrastructure have limited productivity. By linking TVET to the agriculture sector, the project seeks to create jobs, support economic recovery, and equip young people with skills directly applicable to agriculture and related industries. The groundbreaking ceremony underscored the partners’ commitment to expanding skills development, fostering inclusive growth, and promoting sustainable development across South Sudan.
