On April 24 2026, 823 Graduands, with their majestic gowns, crossed the main gate of the Catholic University of South Sudan to become Graduates and start a new journey: «The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams».
Quoting Eleanor Roosevelt, who championed human rights and was the outspoken first lady of the United States from 1933 to 1945, the Vice Chancellor, Rev. Br. Dr. Bruno Amori Dada, encouraged the Graduands to step out into the world as bold thinkers, compassionate leaders, and resilient community builders: «You have been trained not just to succeed, but to make a meaningful impact».
The theme of this graduation, “Academic excellence, personal growth and commitment to transformation of humanity”, was echoed by all those who took the stage, from the Auxiliary Bishop Santo Loku Pio Doggale, Representative of the Chancellor, to the Valedictorian Amoni John from the Faculty of Education, to the Representative of the Minister of Education, Jacob Aligo Lo-Lado: South Sudan is plagued by corruption and tribalism, and needs people who promote integrity and inclusivity in diversity.
Bishop Santo underlined that, through the knowledge and sense of responsibility acquired at the University, the new Graduates are called to care for the wounded, the hungry, the worried, the confused, and the distressed: «The people of South Sudan need guidance toward humanity and integral development, and you are the agents of that change».
The Valedictorian recalled the caring attitudes of the staff he experienced during his years of studies, which have nurtured honesty, attention to the others and also to the environment, with a campus full of trees and flowers, and kept clean with proper waste disposal: «Today we not only celebrate what we have achieved, but what we can become as great leaders, entrepreneurs, and honest and hard-working citizens».
The Advisor in the Ministry of Education of Central Equatoria State, Jacob Aligo Lo-Lado, praised the University for providing quality education and quality professionals, with good standard of English and outstanding reasoning skills. He referred also to the poem recited with confidence and passion by graduand Grace, “The seeds of corruption”, and concluded: «You believe in meritocracy… the University is thriving to excel and earn the status of a high rated institution of learning, as proven in this Graduation».
The Representative of the Alumni, Joseph Akol Manyang, praised the determination of the University and its students, who continued the academic journey even during Covid-19. He appealed to his 822 colleagues to become Alumni and get actively involved in further developing the university.
The Vice Chancellor invited the Alumni to partner with the Administration and the Staff: «Continue to transform this Catholic University into a beacon of excellence. Stay connected, offer your feedback, and remember that you remain an integral part of this institution».
He further acknowledged the vital role of the different partners: Embassies, International and Local Institutions, NGOs, Financial Institutions, and the many stakeholders who provided grants and scholarships to enable bright economically disadvantaged students to pursue their educational dream.
He also mentioned the effort of the Catholic University in developing digital technology and connectivity: «Technology is not a substitute; it is an enabler, enhancing the learning experience and preparing our students for a world where adaptability and digital fluency are essential».
The renovation of the Library and the ongoing steps towards “online teaching” are part and parcel of this effort. «We recognise that the world you entered as students would not be the same by the time you graduate, and we have worked tirelessly to prepare you for this evolving reality».
Escorted by parents, relatives and friends, the new Graduates celebrated with utmost joy. The campus was teeming with rounds of applause, singing and dancing. These 823 life achievements were celebrated in a communitarian dance, which the joint commitment of the University Administration, Staff and Students, “from every tribe, people and nation”, has made possible.
This collaboration and mutual support is a vital witness for South Sudan, and the world at large.
