On March 21, 2025, the University of Juba Women in Academia Association (UJWAA) commemorated Mother’s Day at UniPod, Main Campus-University of Juba. Mrs. Juan Rachel, Secretary-General of the University of Juba Women in Academia Association welcomed distinguished guests, including: Professor Robert Mayom Deng, Vice Chancellor of the University of Juba; Professor Justo Wani Jada, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Admin & Finance, Professor Milton Melingasuk Lado, Director of International Cooperation; Professor Nelson Leben Moro, Director of Planning, Innovation & Quality Assurance; Dr. Adam Cholong Ohiri, Acting Dean of Students’ Affairs; Dr. Jackline Warille, Dean of School of Social & Economic Studies, and UJWAA members.
Dr. Lilly Odwa, Chairperson of University of Juba Women in Academia Association, expressed her gratitude for everyone’s presence at the event, emphasizing that motherhood extends beyond biological ties, with true mothers offering care and support to all. She highlighted the event’s motto, “Empowered women, empowered families, shaping a stronger, more inclusive future“ underscoring the crucial role women play in fostering resilience and strength within families and society.
Dr. Jackline Warille, Dean of the School of Social and Economic Studies, thanked the organizers and acknowledged the challenges of balancing motherhood with professional responsibilities. She also urged the chairperson to recognize oldest members of University of Juba Women in Academia and stressed that motherhood is essential for earning respect in the community. Dr. Warille further advised women to prioritize submission to their husbands and family care, regardless of their educational achievements.
Professor Justo Wani Jada, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Administration and Finance, thanked the University of Juba Women in Academia Association and the university for their significant growth and achievements. He encouraged the association to aim for more than 35% representation and emphasized the importance of engaging with their male counterparts to increase their influence. Prof. Jada also praised the University administration for inaugurating the group and highlighting the necessity of supporting Women in Academia.
Professor Robert Mayom Deng, Vice Chancellor of the University of Juba, marked the commemoration by honoring mothers and recalling that the Mother’s Day tradition was initiated by Ann Jarvis in 1907 to recognize maternal love, with the U.S. designating it during the second week of March. He stressed that a country with educated women enjoys peace and referenced a significant Mother’s Day celebration in Namibia, marking the election of a female president. Prof. Mayom expressed strong support for the Women in Academia initiative, urging the group to advocate for themselves while assuring them of administration backing and the importance of mentoring young academics. He concluded by wishing everyone a joyful day and donating SSP 10,000,000 to support the efforts of UJWAA.