Kiir orders establishment of new National Defense and Strategic Studies University

JUBA —President Salva Kiir has directed the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology to establish a specialized public institution dedicated to defense, security, and strategic studies in the capital.

Announced via state broadcaster SSBC, the presidential directive instructs the Higher Education Ministry alongside the National Council for Higher Education, to expedite the accreditation and structural approval process for the proposed campus.

The planned university aims to advance academic research, community engagement, and specialized training in military strategy, national security, science, technology, and disaster risk management. Officials stated that the curriculum is designed to enhance the operational readiness and professional capacity of South Sudan’s organized forces.

Under the directive, the Ministry of Finance and Planning must allocate initial start-up financing and secure ongoing budgetary provisions. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is tasked with collaborating with international partners to secure external grants and technical assistance for campus infrastructure.

While the initiative expands higher education offerings, questions remain regarding resource allocation, financing structures for existing public universities, and whether admissions will extend to civilian applicants or remain restricted to uniformed personnel.

Final implementation is contingent upon statutory reviews, charter drafting, and the submission of comprehensive institutional blueprints by the interim administration.