6October 2012 - In its first graduation since South Sudan became independent, Upper Nile State University handed out degrees today to over 2,000 students.

Coming from a variety of faculties, the 2,572 students in Malakal Stadium were part of a batch of students studying between 2006 and 2012.

"Education should be our priority because it is the tool to build our new nation," Upper Nile University Council Chairman Pagan Amum, who was also representing South Sudanese President Salva Kiir, told the gathering.

"The administration of Upper Nile University has exerted ... efforts to keep the university operational, despite the challenges," Mr. Amum added.

During the ceremony, former UNMISS Upper Nile Coordinator Seth Kumi and the mission's Indian veterinary battalion were awarded certificates in appreciation of the mission's continued support for the university.

The Indian veterinary battalion has been supporting and training students at the Faculty of Animal Resources. The mission itself donated over 36,000 Sudanese pounds to refurbish the university library after it was looted in 2009, when the Sudan People's Liberation Army and Sudan Armed Forces clashed in Malakal.