By Ginaba Lino

Starfort International University graduated 698 students on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at its sixth commencement, where leaders urged the class to turn their degrees into businesses instead of waiting for scarce government jobs.

Vice Chancellor Dr. James Osuru Mark said the graduation is not the end of learning but the start of applying knowledge. He hailed the resilience of students and families, citing that over 120 academic staff harnessed the graduates for the job market. He cautioned that the government can only hire a small number of graduates, making entrepreneurship and private sector work the main path forward.

“Graduation should be the beginning of solving real problems,” Dr. Osuru said. He urged students to stay disciplined, keep learning, and avoid complacency, pointing to alumni who have started businesses as examples to follow.

Chancellor Dr. Kenneth Muruma Wayne called for a “mental revolution” among youth. He said South Sudan’s future depends on innovation and discipline, not natural resources. He compared the country to Singapore, where success came from creativity and problem-solving.

South Sudan Minister of Higher Education, Hon. Madut Biar Yel, congratulated the graduates and praised the university for meeting national standards. He said South Sudan has moved from armed struggle to intellectual work, and now scholars and professionals must lead nation-building.

Keynote speakers highlighted the country’s high youth unemployment rate and the inability of the public sector to provide jobs. They said private universities are helping to build South Sudan’s human resources, producing graduates who can drive economic growth.

The ceremony brought together government officials, university leaders, parents, and students. The dominant message was clear: graduates must become job creators to help transform South Sudan’s economy.

Education and Employment in South Sudan

Youth unemployment in South Sudan: About 23.7% of South Sudanese aged 15–24 are unemployed despite being available for work.

Higher education quality: South Sudan has eight public universities and several private institutions. The system faces challenges from conflict, low funding, and limited faculty, but reforms aim to improve access and quality.

Private universities’ role in South Sudan: Varsities like Starfort International University are vital in training skilled professionals and entrepreneurs, helping to close the human capital gap and support national development.

Youth Labor Market Indicators (2024)

Indicator	Ages 15-24	Ages 25-34	Total 15-34	National Average
Unemployment Rate	28.5%	19.2%	23.7%	11.4%
Labor Force Participation	45.8%	72.3%	58.2%	68.2%
Underemployment Rate	35.2%	22.8%	28.7%	18.5%
Informal Employment	78.5%	65.2%	71.8%	62.3%
Average Monthly Wage (SSP)	32,500	48,200	39,800	45,800