Ethiopia Expands Scholarships for South Sudanese Students in Landmark Educational Initiative
Juba, South Sudan – In a major step towards strengthening regional ties and fostering educational development, Ethiopia announced a significant expansion of its scholarship program for South Sudanese students. The move aims to bolster bilateral cooperation and empower the youth through increased access to quality education.
The announcement was made during a high-level meeting on Thursday, 15th May 2025, between Ethiopia’s Ambassador to South Sudan, H.E. Nebil Mahdi, and South Sudan’s Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Madut Biar Yel. The meeting took place at the Ministry’s headquarters in Juba.
A Historic Increase in Scholarships
For the 2024/2025 academic year, the number of scholarships awarded to South Sudanese students has surged from 150 to an unprecedented 645. These scholarships cover a diverse range of fields, including undergraduate, postgraduate, and medical studies.
Ambassador Nebil Mahdi highlighted Ethiopia’s commitment, stating, “This year, Ethiopia granted 645 scholarships for South Sudanese in different sectors. We are dedicated to continuing this partnership and facilitating access to quality education for more South Sudanese youth.”
Regional Integration and Youth Empowerment
The expanded scholarships are part of a broader vision to promote regional integration, youth empowerment, and academic exchange between Ethiopia and South Sudan. The initiative underscores Ethiopia’s role as a supportive partner in the development of South Sudan’s human capital.
Gratitude and Challenges
Minister Madut Biar expressed appreciation for Ethiopia’s ongoing support, acknowledging the importance of education in national development. He also addressed internal challenges that have hindered students’ access to opportunities, notably delays in releasing university examination results.
“I will be meeting with Vice Chancellors to address the delays in exam marking,” Minister Madut stated. “We must do our part to ensure students can take full advantage of these valuable opportunities.”
Easing Financial Barriers
Beyond increasing scholarships, Ethiopia is taking proactive steps to ease financial burdens on South Sudanese students. Ambassador Nebil announced that Ethiopia’s Ministry of Education has covered the $150 resident permit fee for South Sudanese students this year. Additionally, efforts are underway with the Ethiopian Parliament to establish a permanent waiver of student visa fees under immigration law.
“Our Ministry has already paid the fee for this year,” Nebil said. “We are working to institutionalize this support so it becomes a lasting benefit for South Sudanese students.”
A Bright Future for Education Cooperation
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment from both governments to deepen educational collaboration and support South Sudanese students in achieving their academic aspirations. With hundreds of students preparing to study or continue their education in Ethiopia under the expanded program, this initiative symbolizes a strong partnership rooted in mutual development and regional stability.
As the new academic year approaches, the expanded scholarships represent not only an investment in individual futures but also a step forward for regional integration, peace, and prosperity through education.
