On Monday, 19th August 2024, the University of Juba in collaboration with the National Transformational Leadership Institute, and DAI hosted the Launch of the Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership in the Deans’ Board Hall. Dr. Angelina Bazugba, Director of the National Transformational Leadership Institute, expressed gratitude for the event and highlighted a two-year journey of partnership with DAI and the NTLI, University of Juba. The focus has been on empowering leaders in conflict management, peacebuilding, and economic empowerment while addressing gender-based violence. A survey conducted in response to women’s absence in discussions during the 2013-2014 crisis revealed the importance of equal representation and the significant contributions of both men and women to achieve socio-economic progress and sustainable peace.
Professor John Akec, the former Vice Chancellor of the University of Juba, and Project Director of Mayardit Academy for Space Sciences, highlighted the establishment of the Master of Arts in Organization Programme, initiated the collaboration with Development Association International (DAI), marking its first introduction in South Sudan. This Programme, aimed at enhancing leadership among targeted chairs, has reached 17 countries and is credited by the University of Juba. Notably, Prof. Akec emphasized the growth of postgraduate programs at the University of Juba, which aims for a target of 10,000 students, currently hosting about 4,000. He underscored that true leadership transcends mere rhetoric and is rooted in service and community engagement, showcasing his commitment to nurturing leaders across various sectors.
Dr. Ryan Murphy, the Director of the International Programme at DAI, expressed enthusiasm for hearing everyone’s introductions and highlighted that DAI offers a Master’s Degree in 17 countries, functioning in multiple languages including English, French, and Spanish, as well as in selected regions of Asia. He emphasized DAI’s commitment to enhancing participants’ professional skills, assuring that the organization can improve the effectiveness of their various endeavors.
Dr. Jane, Overstreet, the president of DAI, expressed her privileged in partnering with attendees and reflected on the organization’s history since its inception in 1996. She emphasized the importance of developing leaders who can achieve success without becoming entangled in the challenges of power dynamics. Dr. Jane highlighted that integrity and hands-on skills are vital components of effective leadership. Additionally, she noted that DAI operates in approximately 48 countries, offering extensive workshops and training Programmes to support this mission.
Prof. Robert recognized Dr. Angelina’s and Prof. John’s key roles in the launch of the DAI Programme, expressing gratitude for their contributions. He highlighted the diverse backgrounds of attendees as beneficial for national leadership and encouraged a servant leadership approach, emphasizing the value of listening and selfless service. Celebrating the inauguration of the Master’s program in Arts and Organizational Leadership, he urged participants to be exemplary ambassadors for the University of Juba and officially declared the program launched.