University of Northern Bahr el Ghazal State gets first-ever library
The new library was officially opened on Monday, September 9, 2024. | Credit | Joseph Athian/Akol Yam FM/
The University of Northern Bahr el Ghazal State has officially opened its newly constructed library, funded by the state's Eritrean business community.

The library, which cost $30,000, features two offices and a spacious book storage area with a capacity of over 10,000 books.

The university's vice chancellor stressed the library's significant contribution to the institution.

Prof. Stephen Chol Ajongo explained that the university had previously faced difficulties storing books due to a lack of a library.

“A well-equipped library, along with lecture halls and qualified academic staff, are essential components of a successful university,” he said.

The new facility will address this issue and provide a much-needed resource for students and faculty.

Chol appealed to the people of Northern Bahr el Ghazal State, both in business and government, to continue supporting the university's operations.

According to the Eritrean ambassador to South Sudan, the donation is part of the Eritrean commitment to supporting South Sudan's people.

Amb. Johannes Teclemichael says the Eritrean people will always stand behind the people of South Sudan.

“So, we will be on your side forever, and if there are issues, we will continue to sit down, discuss, and resolve all the matters arising,” he added.

Established as a public institution in 2010, the University of Northern Bahr el Ghazal State faced challenges due to insufficient funding from the national government.

With the support of well-wishers, the university has been able to renovate lecture halls, start building a wall fence and gate, and open its doors to students in 2023.

The university's two colleges, Nursing and Midwifery and Environmental Health, currently have 102 students enrolled.