Action Against Hunger Partners with University of Juba and SUDD Institute to Drive Research Agenda for South Sudan’s Development

By Denilson Denike 

In a milestone collaboration, Action Against Hunger has inked a Memorandum of Understanding with the University of Juba and the SUDD Institute to spearhead a research agenda focused on driving development in South Sudan. The signing ceremony, attended by key stakeholders, highlighted the importance of generating impactful research for the nation’s progress.

Speaking at the event, INASP emphasized the crucial role of knowledge generation and translation in advancing research and higher education in the country. 

Prof. Robert Mayom Deng, Vice Chancellor of the University of Juba, pledged the institution’s commitment to providing expertise, research personnel, and necessary facilities for the project’s success while prioritizing ethical conduct throughout the collaboration.

“We will not cut corners. Ethics must be at the core of our research endeavors,” stated Prof. Mayom, underlining the significance of upholding ethical standards in all aspects of the partnership. He also highlighted the focus on food security as a critical priority to address the challenges faced by the population.

Acting Country Director of Action Against Hunger, Testation Woldetsadik, expressed optimism about the partnership’s potential to yield impactful research outcomes benefiting all South Sudanese. 

Managing Director of the SUDD Institute, Luka Biong Deng, lauded the collaboration’s dedication to addressing food security and climate change issues, aligning with global agendas for sustainable development.

Meanwhile, Dr. Augustino T. Mayai from the South Sudan National Bureau of Statistics urged all developmental partners, donors, and international communities to collaborate with the Bureau to ensure valid and approved research initiatives. Stressing the importance of collective responsibility, Dr. Mayai emphasized that such efforts would contribute significantly to the long-term benefit of the people of South Sudan.

The partnership between Action Against Hunger, University of Juba, and the SUDD Institute signifies a united front in advancing research, innovation, and technology for the nation’s development, underscoring a shared commitment to addressing pressing challenges and fostering a brighter future for all South Sudanese.