A Legacy of Faith & Service

St. Mary's University College was officially launched on April 15, 2009 by Late H.G. Paulino Lukudu Loro, Metropolitan Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Juba. The institution began as a collaboration between the Archdiocese and OVCI (Usratuna), an Italian organization dedicated to rehabilitation services for children with physical disabilities.

What started as a centre to train Physiotherapy staff at the Usratuna Children Rehabilitation Centre has grown into a comprehensive university college with four academic schools, serving hundreds of students and producing graduates who serve South Sudan in critical professional roles.

2009

School of Rehabilitation Sciences Founded

Established on April 15, 2009 by OVCI (Usratuna) to train Physiotherapy staff. Officially launched by Late H.G. Paulino Lukudu Loro, Metropolitan Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Juba.

2012

School of Education Established

Opened on May 7, 2012 with support from AVSI, located in Usratuna Compound. Focused on training qualified Primary School Teachers with Science and Arts departments.

2019

School of Human Development Opens

Initiated in 2018, became operational in 2019/2020 with three departments: Public Administration, Development Studies, and Social Work & Social Administration.

2021

Ministry Approval for Human Development Programs

On December 6, 2021, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology officially approved all three BA degree programs in the School of Human Development.

2025

8th Graduation Ceremony

Held on November 29, 2025, celebrating graduates from all three schools. Dr. Roden Loro Karlo appointed as Dean of the new School of Economics and Administrative Sciences.

2026

School of Economics & Administrative Sciences

New school launching with BSc programs in Business Administration, Accounting & Finance, and Banking & Insurance. First intake expected early 2026.

Mission & Vision

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Our Mission

To provide quality Catholic higher education that forms competent, compassionate professionals committed to serving the people of South Sudan through excellence in rehabilitation sciences, education, human development, and economic sciences.

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Our Vision

To be a leading Catholic institution of higher learning in East Africa, recognized for producing ethical, skilled professionals who contribute to the holistic development and peace-building of South Sudan.

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Our Values

  • Faith and Spiritual Formation
  • Academic Excellence
  • Service to Community
  • Integrity and Ethics
  • Compassion and Care
  • Partnership and Collaboration

Founding Partners

St. Mary's University College exists through the generous collaboration of dedicated partners

Catholic Archdiocese of Juba

The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Juba serves as the institutional home and spiritual foundation of St. Mary's University College. Under the leadership of successive Archbishops, the Archdiocese has provided governance, spiritual direction, and unwavering support for the institution's mission of faith-based education.

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OVCI la Nostra Famiglia (Usratuna)

An Italian organization that established and continues to support the School of Rehabilitation Sciences. OVCI operates the Usratuna Children Rehabilitation Centre and has sponsored over 50 students through funding from the Italian Bishops Conference (CEI). They also provide academic, technical, and material support to the institution.

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AVSI Foundation

An Italian development organization that supports the School of Education through strategic collaboration. AVSI's contributions include covering salaries for 5 lecturers and 1 support staff, and the installation of a sustainable solar-powered borehole for water supply and sanitation.

Our Leadership

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University Administration

Vice Chancellor's Office

Providing strategic leadership and academic governance for all four schools of the university college.

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Academic Affairs

Deputy Vice Chancellor

Overseeing curriculum development, quality assurance, and academic standards across all programs.

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Dr. Roden Loro Karlo

Dean, School of Economics & Administrative Sciences

Associate Professor appointed September 1, 2025 to lead the new school launching in 2026.

Accreditation & Approvals

St. Mary's University College operates under the regulatory framework of South Sudan's higher education system, with all programs officially approved by the relevant government authorities.

Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology

Official approval granted for all degree programs. The School of Human Development received program approval on December 6, 2021. School of Economics curriculum validated by technical experts in October 2025.

Catholic Church Recognition

Operated under the authority of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Juba, ensuring adherence to Catholic educational principles and values.

Professional Practice Partners

Clinical and field placements recognized by Ministry of Health and Ministry of Gender and Social Welfare at both National and State levels.