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Torit — 30 January 2026
The committee tasked with activating Torit University of Science and Technology (TUST) has pledged to officially open the university in March, following the formal handover of the former United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) compound and its offices from the Eastern Equatoria State government—a milestone described as pivotal for higher education in the state.
The designated committee includes several senior lecturers and academics, with the handover considered a significant achievement toward the university’s operational launch. Established in 2010, TUST has long remained inactive academically.
The UN mission in South Sudan closed its offices in Torit late last year before transferring ownership of the compound and its assets to the state government, which later decided to dedicate the entire site and its facilities to Torit University. The transferred assets included two vehicles, several pieces of furniture, and essential stationery supplies.
Elia Jon Ahaji, Eastern Equatoria State Minister of Information and official government spokesperson, who chairs the ministerial committee overseeing the handover, emphasized the state government’s full commitment to working closely with the university administration to revive TUST and accelerate its opening. He highlighted the strategic importance of the institution in serving the local community, the youth of the state, and South Sudan at large.
Minister Ahaji said:
“Today is a historic day for the people of Eastern Equatoria and South Sudan, as we witness the transformation of the former UN compound into Torit University of Science and Technology—a milestone that reflects a genuine commitment to investing in education and human development.”
He added that the state government will continue working alongside the designated committee to ensure the university is ready for operation, expressing appreciation for the committee’s efforts and the support of the Government of South Sudan in realizing this vision. He stressed that accelerating the university’s opening addresses an urgent need for the state’s youth.
The minister also noted that operating the university will contribute to reducing crime, enhancing employment opportunities, and empowering youth to innovate and participate positively in the national economy.
For his part, TUST Vice President, Professor Pasquale Tiberio Muilenga, expressed deep gratitude to Eastern Equatoria Governor Louis Lobong and his government, describing the decision as historic and unprecedented in support of higher education institutions in South Sudan.
Professor Muilenga said:
“Allocating a facility of this size and importance to a national university is an exceptional event worthy of celebration and represents a real turning point for the future of higher education in the state.”
He noted that the university administration is currently preparing high-quality, innovative academic programs, confirming its commitment to officially launching the university by the end of February or early March, following the resolution of previous delays.
The vice president emphasized the strong partnership with the state government, highlighting the ongoing support the university receives, and added that establishing TUST will open wide opportunities for youth and the community, contributing significantly to sustainable development and national capacity-building.
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