SOUTH SUDAN: Outgoing Chancellor of South Sudan Catholic University Appreciates Growth
Sr. Henriette Anne, FSSA
On Monday, 5th May 2024, the outgoing chancellor of the Catholic University of South Sudan (CUofSS) Rev. Dr. Bishop Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala after completing his terms of office successfully passed over the mantle to the incoming chancellor His Eminence Cardinal Ameyu Mulla the President of Sudan and South Sudan Catholic Bishop’s Conference and bishop Christian Carlassale.
“After many years of dedicated service as Chancellor of the Catholic University of South Sudan, I am delighted to pass over the mantle to my brother who is well deserving of this position, His Eminence Cardinal Ameyu Mulla, the president of Sudan and South Sudan Catholic Bishops Conference and His Lordship Bishop Christian of the Rumbek as special Chair to the University”.
In his heartfelt farewell speech, he described Cardinal Ameyu and Bishop Christiano as servants of God who possess a keen intellect, visionary outlook, and collaborative spirit that will serve the University.
“I have had the privilege of working closely both with Cardinal Stephen Ameyu and Bishop Christiano and have witnessed firsthand their exceptional meticulous leadership, unwavering commitment to academic excellence, and deep understanding of our university’s mission, vision, and values. I have known Cardinal Ameyu and Bishop Christiano as a servant of God who possesses a keen intellect, visionary, outlook, and a collaborative spirit that will serve our university”.
Bishop Hiiboro who was unable to attend the graduation ceremony due to violent skirmishes affecting his Diocese apologized for his absence during the occasion and asked for prayers for the safe release of Fr. Luke and Mr. Gbeko who disappeared last month on 27th, April 2024.
Appreciating the opportunity given to offer leadership to the University, bishop Hiiboro stated, “I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to the bishop’s conference for first trusting me with this dignified task of being the Chancellor of the Catholic University of South Sudan, I have been able to accomplish much because of their unwavering support throughout my tenure”.
He also thanked, Fr. Mathew Pagan, the Vice Chancellor for his support, Fr. Michael Sultice, a Jesuit Priest who helped them realize the dream of establishing a Catholic University in South Sudan, the Board of Trustees for their support, and the entire University community.
In his speech, he reflected on what has transformed the university during his time in the office as the Chancellor, “during my tenure, with the help of our Lord Jesus, the support of the Board of Trustees, the Vice Chancellor, we managed to successfully set the overall strategic direction and vision for the University in alignment with its mission, vision, and values”.
He continued that because of good strategic planning, they were able to allocate resources effectively for the support of the University stressing that they “were able to move from a nomadic University which had no campus, and kept moving from one place to another in search of a place to conduct teaching and learning to University that currently boasts of a modern main campus in Juba, with satellite campuses in Wau, Yambio, Rumbek, and Malakal”.
He further added that they also secured the registration for the university from the Ministry of Higher Education of South Sudan which led to the accreditation of different programs offered at the University and the recognition of certificates by the government and other employers worldwide.
The outgoing Chancellor, who is also the bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio (CDTY), opined that they have also managed “to secure vast pieces of land for the University and innovations, and over 5,600 students have graduated from the (CUofSS)”.
Administratively, the local ordinary of the CDTY acknowledged that through his leadership and with the help of the Vice Chancellor, they ensured efficient day-to-day operations and effective management of the institution and successfully supervised administrative departments such as finance, human resources, facilities management, including students’ services to ensure accountability, transparency and the efficient running of each office in a professional manner.
He also underscored that academically they have promoted academic excellence by supporting innovative teaching and learning approaches.
Through networking, the prelate appreciated individuals and donors who tirelessly supported them; The Italian Episcopal Conference, The German Episcopal Conference through Misereor, Aid to the Church in Need (Germany), the South Sudan Relief Fund, The Holy See (Propagation of Faith) and, Papal Foundation among others.
Bishop Hiiboro also noted that by engaging the community they were able to strengthen the University’s role as a civic anchor, promoting social change and leading to the birth of the “National Reconciliation Program” in the country during the year of Mercy.
As he handed over the mantle to the incoming leadership, bishop Hiiboro pointed out the pending tasks including; seeking a charter so that they establish the Department of Theology, the School of Medicine, the School of Law, Computer Technology, Social Communication, and research programs.
He continued “We were in the process of seeking and engaging a Chaplaincy to provide spiritual guidance, and establishing a satellite Campus in Torit that specializes in Technical and Vocational Courses”.
In conclusion, Bishop Hiiboro pledged his ongoing support to the incoming leadership and expressed readiness to assist in ensuring a smooth transition and continued progress for the Catholic University of South Sudan.
“I will always be on standby to offer my support and encouragement to you. Should you need guidance or support along the way, please know that my door is always open to you. I am more than willing to share insights from my experience and provide assistance whenever needed. Together, we can ensure a seamless transition and continued progress for the benefit of the Catholic University of South Sudan”.
