On 26 February 2026, the University of Juba, in partnership with Ministry of General Education and Instructions, Ministry of Gender, Child and Social Welfare, Light for the World, Save the Children International, Education Cannot Wait, UNICEF, among other partners, officially launched the Inclusive Education Resource Centre (IERC) – the first centre of its kind in South Sudan. The launch took place at the University’s Main Campus under the theme: “A Vibrant Space Where People Can Come to Learn About Disability Inclusion and Technology.” The event brought together representatives from government ministries, development partners, civil society organizations, the diplomatic community, and students to celebrate an important milestone in advancing inclusive education in the country.
Hon. Esther Ikere Eluzai, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Gender, Child and Social Welfare, highlighted the importance of inclusive education initiatives supported by Light for the World. She explained that the programme operates under the motto “Leave No Child Behind” and has already established 13 centres across the country. Hon. Eluzai also noted that the programme utilizes resource centres in universities, including examples such as Kenyatta University. She expressed appreciation to partners such as Education Cannot Wait and UNICEF for their continued support and called for sustained collaboration from partners including Light for the World and UK Aid. She further assured that the government is committed to expanding similar centres to all ten states in South Sudan.
Prof. John A. Akec, Vice Chancellor of the University of Juba, congratulated Light for the World and expressed pride in witnessing the launch of the Inclusive Education Resource Centre at the university. He emphasized that significant achievements require collective effort, noting that partnerships play a critical role in advancing inclusive education. Prof. Akec stated that initiatives such as the centre demonstrate what can be achieved when institutions and partners work together toward a shared goal.
H.E. Lothar Jaschke, Deputy Head of the European Union Delegation, welcomed the establishment of the centre and highlighted its importance in improving accessibility for students with special needs. He emphasized that equality and inclusivity are essential for a cohesive society and noted that the treatment of minorities has a direct impact on social harmony. H.E. Jaschke acknowledged South Sudan’s ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) and recognized the progress made while noting that challenges remain. He called for increased government investment in education and expressed appreciation to partners who have supported the initiative.
Mr. Achulube John, Programme Manager for Inclusive Education at Light for the World, reflected on the 5 March 2025 signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that led to the establishment of the Inclusive Education Resource Centre. He explained that the centre aims to promote inclusive education, protect the rights of persons with disabilities (PWDs), and serve as a hub providing assistive technology, peer mentoring, career guidance, and accessible learning spaces. He also highlighted the Centre’s support for students with visual impairments, including Braille and sign language training, curriculum transcription, and community awareness campaigns as part of Light for the World’s resilience programmes.
Mr. Augustino Wudu Elario, Student Representative and Chairperson of SSUPD, expressed pride in being a graduate of the University of Juba and emphasized the importance of the centre in promoting inclusion. He called for continued collaboration among stakeholders to ensure that the centre effectively supports persons with disabilities and strengthens inclusive education across South Sudan.
Mr. Christopher Nyamandi, Country Director of Save the Children, described the centre as a shared commitment between the government, the university, civil society organizations, and development partners such as Education Cannot Wait and UNICEF. He stressed that every child, regardless of disability, has the potential to succeed and that the centre serves as a reminder that students with disabilities can achieve their academic goals. He also expressed hope that similar centres will be established in other educational institutions across South Sudan.
Mrs. Lucy Nyaga, International Director of Programmes at Light for the World, emphasized that the initiative demonstrates a collective commitment to ensuring that no learner is left behind. She noted that the centre supports the rights of persons with disabilities in South Sudan in line with the UNCRPD and represents a practical step toward translating inclusive education policies into action. She further highlighted that the resource centre encourages students with disabilities to pursue their academic ambitions and reinforces the message that disability should not be a barrier to leadership or excellence.
In his closing remarks, Hon. Omot Okony Olok Guon, Undersecretary at the Ministry of General Education and Instruction, emphasized the importance of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education for all. He encouraged persons with disabilities to take advantage of the opportunities offered by the new centre and shared inspiring stories of individuals who have overcome disabilities to achieve success. He also praised efforts to improve accessibility, such as translating curricula into Braille, and encouraged educators and students to learn sign language and Braille in order to create a more inclusive environment.
The launch of the Inclusive Education Resource Centre marks a significant step toward advancing inclusive education in South Sudan. It reflects the collective commitment of the government, educational institutions, civil society organizations, and development partners to ensure that no child is left behind. The centre not only improves accessibility for students with disabilities but also reinforces the belief that every learner has the potential to succeed, contributing to a more equitable and inclusive society.
This initiative strongly aligns with the core values of the University of Juba, particularly inclusiveness, excellence, innovation, and community service. By promoting equal access to education for students with disabilities, the centre advances the University’s commitment to inclusiveness and equal opportunities for all learners. Through the provision of assistive technologies, training, and learning resources, the centre also supports excellence and innovation in teaching and learning. Furthermore, by working with government institutions and development partners to address societal needs, the centre reflects the University’s dedication to community service and its motto, “Inventing the Future, Transforming Society.”
By: Miss Ann Poni James
Editor: Miss Rebecca Awuor Deng