On February 28, 2025, the University of Juba Women in Academia held a general assembly for the formation of the University of Juba Women in Academia Association in Senate Hall.
Dr. Jackline Warille, Dean of the School of Social and Economic Studies, opened the session by requesting acknowledgment for the women at the university, referring to them as “Uni Flowers” and thanking them for their participation. She shared two insightful quotes: “The only difference between a mob and a trained army is organization.” – Calvin Coolidge. “We are not a mob, but we are trained academics”. We are learned people, and this is why we need to be organized to make the distinction between a mob and us who are trained.” – C. Jay.
Dr. Warille continued by questioning, “As women in academia at the University of Juba, what are we doing together? We are divided across schools, and only God knows whether we are truly working together. For those without administrative positions, is there any forum that brings us together?”. She emphasized the importance of the “Women in Academia” and “Uni Flowers” WhatsApp groups in creating supportive spaces for women outside the academic setting, such as for celebrations like Mother’s Day and International Women’s Day. Despite the positive gatherings organized by Dr. Tabitha Kenyi and her team, Dr. Warille noted the inactivity of the group, with members engaging primarily during formal events and not maintaining ongoing interaction, which discouraged those hoping for a more dynamic and engaged community.
Dr. Warille also discussed the significance of the Forum for Women in Academia, which aims to support and create opportunities for women across all academic ranks while avoiding political issues. She encouraged women with diverse interests to collaborate and recognized the leadership roles women hold within their schools. Dr. Warille expressed her gratitude to Dr. Tabitha, Dr. Siham Osman, Mama Lina, Mama Nora and the senior administration team, including Prof. Robert Mayom Deng (Vice Chancellor- UoJ), Prof. Isaac Cleto Rial (Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs), Prof. Justo Wani Jada (Deputy Vice Chancellor for Administration & Finance), Prof. Mairi J. Blackings (Registrar for Academic Affairs), and Dr. Bojoi Moses Tomor (Registrar for Administration & Finance).
Dr. Siham Osman, Director of the Centre for Human Resource Development and Continual Education at the University of Juba, shared her personal experiences as the sole female lecturer among 14 men during the university’s early years in South Sudan. She highlighted the vital contributions of pioneering women in academia, such as Hon. Josephine Lagu (Vice President for Service Cluster, and former Lecturer at the university of Juba), Dr. Tabitha Eliaba (Director General of the Directorate of Accreditation, Private, and Foreign Higher Education Institutions in the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology), Dr. Sarah Otwanda, Dr. Asha, and Joy, who have paved the way for women in academia and leadership roles.
Dr. Siham Osman stressed the importance of women representation and collaboration in higher education and advocated for mentorship to bridge the generational gap between senior and junior academics. She emphasized that misunderstandings between generations should not be mistaken for animosity. The gathering aimed to create a supportive and empowering academic environment, encouraging experienced women to mentor junior academics for mutual growth and advancement.
Dr. Siham Osman also highlighted the unique nature of the academic environment, urging for respect and open dialogue to address challenges affecting both academia and the broader community. She encouraged women academics to expand their knowledge beyond their specific fields to include national and regional issues, particularly those affecting women. By establishing a dedicated body for women in academia, they could enhance collaboration and representation in international forums, drawing on shared experiences and support from organizations like UN Women. Dr. Siham Osman, along with Dr. Tabitha Kenyi and Dr. Jackline Warille, expressed their commitment to overseeing this initiative by facilitating seminars and conferences to foster unity among Women academics at the University of Juba and promote interactions with international peers.
Dr. Alek facilitated a session for reflection, comments, and brainstorming on the formation of the Women in Academia office, which would consist of a Chair, Deputy Chair, Secretary General, Secretary of Finance, and Secretary of Information. Members of the association nominated eight candidates for these roles, and five were selected through a vote.
Newly Elected Leadership of Women in Academia Association
- Dr. Lily Odwa – Chairperson
- Dr. Alek Ajack – Deputy Chairperson
- Mrs. Juan Rachael Michael – Secretary General
- Mrs. Nadline Justine – Secretary of Finance
- Ms. Rebecca Awuor Deng– Secretary of Information
Dr. Warille urged the members to join the Female in Academia WhatsApp group and asked Dr. Lily Odwa, the chairperson of newly formed association to take full responsibility as the first chairperson, with the expectation that after the term (2 or 3 years), there will be a report to present. She also suggested that members pay a subscription for membership, as it is crucial for sustaining the Association. Dr. Warille expressed her gratitude to Mama Lina and Mama Nora for their continued support, reminding everyone that while they are women in academia, they also fall under the broader umbrella of the general union.
Prof. Flora Eyoha (Deputy Vice Chancellor for Admin and Finance- UNU), who attended the event, shared her personal journey since joining the University of Juba as a staff in the Department of Geology and Mining in the School of Natural Resources and Environmental Studies. She expressed her gratitude to the Women in Academia members for their ongoing support and congratulated the newly elected office bearers. Prof. Flora emphasized the importance of mentorship, encouraging the new leaders to be role models for younger women academics. She urged these young women to value themselves, actively engage in their academic community, and share their experiences. Drawing inspiration from Dr. Siham’s successful delegations, Prof. Flora encouraged the women to be committed and participate in social interactions, and declared the event officially closed.