By Emmanuel Mandella

The Diocese of Yambio on Saturday celebrated the 30th graduation of Bishop Yeremiah Theological Institute Students, where some eighteen pastors successfully completed their theological studies.

The colorful event, marked under the theme:  Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved” (2 Timothy 2:15), attracted church and political leaders, including His Grace Dr. Samuel Enosa Peni, Archbishop of ECSS Western Equatoria Internal Province, Bishop Emmanuel Ramadan of Nadiagere Diocese, and Bishop Enock of Gangura Diocese.

Also in attendance were Hon. John Bariona Farula, the State Minister of Cabinet Affairs in Western Equatoria, His Worship Yambio Town Mayor John Singira, and the State Revenue Authority Commissioner James Richard Ramadan.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Principal of the institute reminded the congregation of the institution’s roots, citing lack of power, computers and clean water as biggest hurdles facing the institution.

“Bishop Yeremiah Theological Institute was established in 1978 by the late Bishop Yeremiah Datiro. For the academic years 2022 to 2025, we enrolled 18 candidates who have today graduated as pastors,” he said.

“The institute is in need of computers, water sources, and electricity for smooth operations. We call upon well-wishers to support both the school and the children seeking education here,” the Principal added.

The event also carried a message of peace. The State Minister of Cabinet Affairs Hon. John Bariona urged residents of Western Equatoria to shun violence, that killing only results to losses.

“When you kill others, you lose. There is no winner in conflict,” Bariona stated.

In a show of support, Hon. Bariona donated 5 million South Sudanese Pounds to the institute, underscoring the need for both government and community to sustain theological education and nurture future church leaders.

The graduation not only marked an academic milestone but also reaffirmed the institute’s pivotal role in shaping religious leadership in Western Equatoria State since its founding nearly five decades ago.