Ongoing Strike at Bahr el-Ghazal University

The academic and non-academic staff at Bahr el-Ghazal University are continuing their strike, demanding the payment of their remaining salary arrears. Despite receiving one month of overdue pay, the workers have vowed to maintain their protest until they receive the total amount owed.

Background of the Strike

The strike began on October 14, when staff members expressed frustration over the delay in payment of their salary, which they said had accumulated to eleven months. The grievances included salaries, ticket allowances, and medical arrears. Joseph Lual Dario Deng, the Chairperson of the University Academic Staff, addressed the media about the situation. “We are still demanding our salaries for 10 months. The one-month pay will not do much for us as we have many debts and bills to pay,” he stated.

Financial Challenges

The financial situation has left many staff members in a dire state. Dario shared that while the recent payment provided some relief, it was far from enough. “When we go to the banks, they tell us that they don’t have enough cash,” he said, highlighting the difficulties in accessing their money. Many staff members have experienced significant challenges when trying to withdraw their salaries. “You can queue at the banks from morning to sunset but end up not getting the full amount,” Dario explained.

Economic Challenges in South Sudan

The economic challenges facing South Sudan are partly responsible for the delayed payments. Since the conflict from 2013 to 2018, the country has struggled economically, with dwindling revenues from crude oil exports. More recently, disruptions due to the war in neighboring Sudan have worsened the economy. President Salva Kiir acknowledged the issues earlier this year, admitting that civil servants and soldiers had gone unpaid for months. He pointed to the mismanagement of funds collected from non-oil revenues.

Demands and Appeals

The university staff have appealed to the National Government for immediate action to release the remaining funds. Dario urged, “We want the government to understand our situation and release the remaining 10 months’ pay so that all the staff can resume their duties.” The staff remains resolute in their demands, and the strike continues.

Similar Situations in Other Institutions

On October 14, the non-academic Staff Association of Rumbek University of Science and Technology threatened to strike over the lack of payment of their ten months’ salary from January to September 2024, and arrears of December 2023. Dut Majok Kurauai, the chairperson of the Association, said they had a meeting and came up with a resolution that their delayed salaries, which have accumulated for ten months, be paid.

Impact on Students

The strike has left students uncertain about their education. Sebit Jok Reech, the University’s Guild President, called on the government to find an urgent solution and address the suffering experienced by the students, who now go without lectures and food.

Conclusion

The ongoing strike at Bahr el-Ghazal University and similar situations in other institutions reflect a broader crisis in South Sudan, where public sector workers have lately gone for months without pay. The staff’s determination to continue their strike until their demands are met highlights the urgency of the situation. It is essential for the government to address the issue promptly to prevent further disruption to the education sector and alleviate the suffering of the staff and students.

South Sudanese Artist Makes Waves with Peace-Themed Painting

Introduction to Ashraf Abdurrahman Kuku

Ashraf Abdurrahman Kuku, a talented South Sudanese artist, has gained international recognition for his stunning artwork that promotes peace and positivity. He recently won a competition organized by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan, in partnership with the University of Juba, with his thought-provoking piece.

The Competition

The competition, themed "Peace Begins with Me," aimed to provide a platform for emerging artists to showcase their creative talents. Out of 16 art students who submitted their work, Ashraf, a third-year student at the University of Juba School of Art and Drama, took home the top prize. The competition took place on April 26, and participants were given 20 days to complete their artwork.

Ashraf’s Winning Piece

Ashraf’s painting depicts a free mind from which doves are taking off, symbolizing the spread of peace. He explained that his artwork represents the idea that peace begins within an individual and can only be achieved when one has inner serenity. "Peace is totally serenity within a person. If you don’t have it within you, you cannot access or achieve it anywhere," he said.

Overcoming Challenges

As an aspiring artist, Ashraf faced discouragement from friends and family who viewed art as a non-productive pursuit. However, he remained committed to his passion, believing that art can be a powerful tool for positive change. His determination and talent have finally paid off, and his artwork is now inspiring others.

Other Notable Entries

The competition showcased a range of talented artists, with Suleiman Morgan and John Yanga Emiliano Ladu taking second and third place, respectively. Their paintings, "The Dawn" and "Journey to Peace," demonstrated the creativity and skill of the students.

Reaction from the University

Justin Billy, Dean of the University’s School of Art, Music, and Drama, expressed pride in his students’ work. "This was a great opportunity for them to promote their own narrative. They have managed to travel inwards to their souls and come back from that adventurous journey with paintings that touch every one of us," he said.

Conclusion

Ashraf Abdurrahman Kuku’s winning artwork is a testament to the power of creativity and determination. His peace-themed painting has not only brought recognition to himself but also to his country, promoting a positive image of South Sudan. As his artwork continues to inspire others, it serves as a reminder that peace begins within and can be achieved through individual efforts. Ashraf’s story is a shining example of the impact that young artists can have on their communities and the world at large.

University Delays Academic Year Due to Food Shortage

The Dr. John Garang Memorial University of Science and Technology in Bor has suspended the opening of the 2025 academic year due to a lack of food for students. This decision was made by the university’s administration and was announced on Monday.

Reason for the Delay

The delay is a result of the contractors’ failure to supply food to the university. According to Maluak David Mayen, Secretary General of the Students’ Union, the university has a responsibility to ensure that all students have access to adequate nutrition and welfare services while on campus. Unfortunately, the contractor responsible for providing these services is facing difficulties in fulfilling their commitments due to inadequate financial resources.

Impact on Students

The suspension of the academic year will cause inconvenience to students who were expecting to start their studies. However, the university is actively seeking alternative solutions to ensure that students’ needs are met during this period. The Students’ Union is engaging with the university administration to resolve the issue and find a way to reopen the university.

Official Statement

Dr. James Augustino Majak, Academic Registrar of the university, issued a circular on Monday suspending registration at all levels and interviews for first-year students until further notice. The circular stated that the start of registration, interviews, and commencement of first-semester lectures for the academic year 2025 have been postponed until further notice.

Efforts to Resolve the Issue

The Students’ Union and the university administration are working together to find a solution to the food shortage problem. They are exploring alternative options to ensure that students have access to adequate nutrition and welfare services. The university is committed to providing a conducive learning environment for its students, and they are working hard to resolve the issue as soon as possible.

Conclusion

The delay in the academic year is a setback for the students of Dr. John Garang Memorial University of Science and Technology. However, the university’s administration and the Students’ Union are working together to resolve the issue and find a way to reopen the university. The university is committed to providing quality education and adequate welfare services to its students, and they will do everything possible to ensure that the academic year starts as soon as possible.