The Return of Small London: Yei Reclaims its Position as Cradle of Education….For many years, Yei was proudly known as “Small London”, a name earned because of its cool climate, peaceful environment, friendly people, and, above all, its excellent schools.
For decades, students from across South Sudan came to Yei to receive quality education, making it one of the country’s most respected region for learners.
The conflicts of 2013 and 2016 changed that story; Many schools closed, teachers fled, and thousands of students had their education disrupted.
But the people never lost their belief in education. Today, the town is making a steady comeback with new universities opening, more students enrolling, and hope returning.
The Small London is once again proving that education remains one of its greatest strengths. A key part of this progress is the establishment of Emmanuel Christian University, which was established in 2001 by the Evangelical Presbyterian Church.
Initially, Emmanuel was created to train church leaders and professionals who can serve churches in the country.
However, its full accreditation by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology in September 2024 marked an important milestone for its upgrade into a university.
The establishment of Centenary University by the Episcopal Church Diocese of Yei has added more opportunities for young people to study without leaving their communities.
More students can now pursue university education closer to home, reducing both the cost and challenges of studying elsewhere in Juba or Bahr El Ghazal.
Another major boost came with the Presidential directive to establish the University of Yei on Friday; the decision recognizes Yei’s long history as a center of education and its potential to regain that position.
These universities are more than places where students earn degrees; it prepares them to become teachers, doctors, engineers, scientists, entrepreneurs, and public servants who will help shape the future of the country.
My late Father Rest In Peace, Michael Modi, used to say, if he had enough money, he would establish a university in Yei. I believe where he is, he must be smiling at this development. Education is one of the strongest foundations that creates skilled workers, reduces poverty, supports businesses, and strengthens communities.
Despite all these developments, more work remains; these Universities need qualified lecturers, well-equipped libraries, laboratories, modern technology, research facilities, and scholarships so that students from all backgrounds can succeed. This is a shared responsibility not only for the government, churches, development partners, nor the private sector alone, but the people of Yei must work hard to ensure the universities will serve the future generations.
Yei’s story is no longer about recovering from conflict but rather about proving that education can restore hope and shape a better future for generations to come
