03/11/2025
Aweil West Students Association Welcomes Newly Admitted Students at the University of Bahr El Ghazal
The leadership of Aweil West Students Association conducted a welcoming ceremony for newly admitted students at Robert Primary School in Wau on Sunday.
The colorful event brought together distinguished guests, including Ustaz Albino Athiang Kuel, a lecturer in the College of Education who served as the guest of honor; Sultan Deng Ariath as a special guest; Ustaz Garang Atak, SPLM Secretary for Aweil community,former Aweil Students Association chairman Ustaz Diang Akuei Akuei, currently a Teaching Assistant at the College of Economics and Social Studies; former Warrap State Students Association chairman Dr. Martin Mabeny Dor; and several chairpersons representing various Aweil communities.
Speaking during the ceremony, a representative of the first-year students expressed gratitude to the leadership for the warm welcome, while also noting that the event could have been held earlier to help new students better adapt to university life.
He also highlighted financial struggles among freshmen, particularly in acquiring reading materials as exams approach.
A senior student, John Garang Ngor, encouraged the new students to prepare diligently for exams and shared strategies for academic success. In his remarks, he also touched on the issue of disunity within the Aweil Students Association, saying, “Aweil West Students were intentionally pushed away from the mother association by those who don’t want to see Aweil Students united.”
Similarly, Dr. Garang Ding from the College of Medicine urged the new students to stay away from divisive politics, calling instead for unity and wisdom in choosing leaders. “Seek advice from elders who will not mislead you when electing unifying leaders,” he said, warning against individuals who use student politics for personal gain.
Dr. Garang further called on Aweil West Students to embrace forgiveness and dialogue, saying, “Those who divided us have enriched themselves already; their terms are ending. Let’s forgive and choose a new path.”
In a closing remarks, Ustaz Diang Akuei echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing peace and harmony among students. He supported the leadership financially and pledged to contribute to efforts aimed at uniting Aweil students.
Madam Aker Akot Bith, speaking on behalf of the Deputy Governor of Northern Bahr El Ghazal’s family, called for reconciliation, describing the current split as a stain on Aweil Students’ integrity. She pledged financial support for first-year students and requested their data to assist in buying study sheets.
Dr. Veronica Akuot Mariano also addressed the gathering, urging the broader Aweil community in Wau to mediate and resolve leadership disputes both among students and community associations. She emphasized unity and provided additional financial assistance to the student leadership.
Former Warrap Students Association chairman Dr. Martin Mabeny Dor expressed commitment to mediating between the split factions, noting his ancestral connection to Aweil. “A quarter of my gene is Aweil, and I’m proud of it,” he said. “Aweil people are known for resolving issues peacefully.”
Closing the ceremony, Ustaz Albino Athiang Kuel commended the students for their growing numbers and encouraged them to remain united and committed to learning. “When I joined the University in 2012 as a teaching assistant, there were only a few Aweil Students. Today, your numbers have grown, and I don’t want to see you divided,” he said.
He further advised students to make the most of their time in higher education: “Learn everything — including leadership and politics. If you return home empty-headed, you won’t contribute to your community’s progress.”
The event was also attended by chairpersons from Korok,Dr. Malith Kon, Duluit Bol,Dr. Bol Kur Angok and John Majok Kiir of Aweil Centre communities, all of whom emphasized unity and peace among Aweil students.
In concluding remarks, Dr. Tong Kiir, the chairman of Aweil West Students Association, thanked all attendees for their contributions and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the students.
“If you’re sick, I’ll pay for your medication. If you lack reading sheets, I’ll provide them,” he assured.
The ceremony ended in high spirits, marked by renewed calls for unity, academic focus, and peace among Aweil West students at the University of Bahr El Ghazal.
📸 Buor Banyjiok
