Petition Seeking Presidential Intervention on the Non-Operationalization of Alexandria University, Tonj Branch
By Tong Amiceng Tong
Your Excellency,
I write to you with utmost respect and a deep sense of responsibility as a citizen of the Republic of South Sudan and a son of Warrap State, Bahr el Ghazal Region. I wish to draw your urgent attention to a matter of great concern affecting the future of our youth—the non-operationalization of Alexandria University, Tonj Branch.
Your Excellency, the establishment of Alexandria University – Tonj Branch was announced following a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Government of the Republic of South Sudan and the Government of the Arab Republic of Egypt. This initiative was received with immense hope and enthusiasm by the people of Tonj and Warrap State at large, as it promised to bring higher education closer to our communities.
Regrettably, several years have elapsed without the operationalization of the institution. The facilities remain unused, while our students continue to face significant challenges, including long distances, high costs, and insecurity in accessing university education elsewhere.
In light of the above, I humbly petition Your Excellency to kindly:
- Direct the relevant authorities to review and clarify the status of the Memorandum of Understanding with the Arab Republic of Egypt, including the obligations of each party and the reasons for the delay in operationalizing the university.
- Instruct the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology to issue a comprehensive public report within a defined timeframe explaining the current status and outlining clear steps toward making the Tonj Branch operational.
Your Excellency, the continued closure of this institution undermines the aspirations of an entire generation. Those responsible for delays, whether by action or inaction, risk denying our youth opportunities that are critical for national development.
At the same time, it is important to acknowledge that local leadership and stakeholders must also take responsibility. Silence and lack of coordinated advocacy from within the community have contributed to the current situation. Sustainable development requires collective effort and unity of purpose.
Should it be established that our partners are no longer in a position to operationalize the university, I respectfully propose that the Government considers empowering the community and relevant national institutions to take over and utilize the facilities. In such a case, the institution may be reconstituted as William Deng Nhial Memorial University – Tonj, in honor of one of our nation’s distinguished heroes, and to ensure the infrastructure serves its intended purpose.
Your Excellency, Bahr el Ghazal Region has contributed immensely to the liberation and leadership of this nation. Our appeal is not for special treatment, but for equitable access to education and development as enshrined in our national values.
We trust in your leadership, your commitment to the people of Warrap State, and your dedication to the future of South Sudan’s youth. We respectfully urge your timely and decisive intervention on this matter.
May God bless you and guide your leadership.
May God bless the Republic of South Sudan.
Yours faithfully,
Tong Amiceng Tong
Son of Warrap State, Bahr el Ghazal Region
+211926888555
tongamiceng29@gmail.com
