School of Journalism, Media and Communication Studies (SJMCS)

The School of Journalism, Media and Communication Studies (SJMCS) is a recent addition to the University of Juba after the merger of two departments in 2019.

The Department of Development Communication began in what was then known as the College of Adult Education and Training, a founding College of the University, which eventually became the College of Rural Development and Community Studies. The Department of Mass Communication was established within the former College of Arts and Humanities in 2000 in Khartoum, and transferred to Juba in 2005.

Through a five-year NORHED grant and in line with the University of Juba’s wider restructuring process, the two Schools merged in 2019, creating the institutional entity known as the School of Journalism, Media and Communication Studies.

We aim to educate ethical, socially responsible, well-rounded and fair-minded reporters, communicators and producers of visual and verbal messages who will help build a dynamic and responsive media sector. Furthermore, we prepare students for lifelong learning by supporting them to become active participants in society who can produce as well as critically consume media content. We strive to strengthen our relations with our international colleagues and partners and amplify our voices in the global sphere while affirming our ties and commitments to the South Sudanese public. We draw energy and inspiration from the vibrant and resilient communities of South Sudan to reinforce our core values. We believe journalism, media and communication are fundamental to humanity, critical for community and essential for prosperity.