JUBA—The minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology, Changkuoth Bichiock Reth, on Monday pledged to address the high taxation and accreditation challenges facing private universities, saying the government is committed to creating an enabling environment for private higher education institutions to thrive.
Minister Changkuoth made the commitment on Monday during a meeting with representatives of private universities, where stakeholders raised concerns over multiple taxes and lengthy accreditation procedures affecting the quality and expansion of higher education in the country.
“I reaffirmed my commitment to addressing the institutional gaps that have hindered the effective participation of private universities in matters that concern them,” Changkuoth said in a statement seen by Sudans Post on Monday.
He directed vice chancellors to thoroughly review the appropriation bill for the 2024/2025 financial year and submit their recommendations to help address taxation-related concerns comprehensively and equitably.
“I also emphasised that universities are not commercial enterprises. They are institutions of public service and charitable purpose that deserve supportive government policies to enable them to fulfil their educational mission,” he said.
Changkuoth commended private universities for their vital role in advancing the national education agenda and expanding access to higher education.
“I commend the invaluable role that private universities play in complementing the efforts of public institutions. They are indispensable partners in advancing our national education agenda and expanding access to higher learning,” he said.
“My doors remain open to the academic community and all members of the public who have genuine policy concerns and wish to contribute constructively to the development of inclusive and effective institutional policies for the benefit of our nation.”
He said he engaged vice chancellors of private universities to create a balanced and inclusive platform for sharing their views and involving them in decision-making, recognizing them as key stakeholders in education and national development.
“During our discussions, the vice chancellors raised a number of challenges affecting the performance of private universities and their ability to comply with the legal and policy requirements of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology,” he said.
“Among the major concerns highlighted were the burden of taxation and accreditation programs, which they believe have been unfairly applied, in addition to the limited opportunities for private universities to participate in shaping policies that directly affect their institutions.”
