Prof John Apuruot Akec

PRESIDENT

June 2025 - Present

BIOGRAPHY

Professor John Apuruot Akec – Founding President Professor John Apuruot Akec was appointed in July 2025 as the Founding President of City Technical University (CTU). A distinguished academic and leader, he holds degrees in Applied Physics, Systems Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering, alongside a postgraduate certificate in Environmental Innovation. Previously, as Vice Chancellor of the University of Juba (2014–2024), he oversaw transformative growth, expanding schools, student enrollment, postgraduate programs, and faculty, while upgrading campus infrastructure and research facilities. He has also served as Project Director of the Mayardit Academy for Space Sciences, Chairperson of the National Communication Authority, and Member of the National Constitutional Review Commission. At CTU, Professor Akec is committed to fostering innovation, academic excellence, and inclusivity, guiding the university to become a leading center for technical education and research in South Sudan and the region.

BSc (Honours) in Applied Physics and Electronics – University of Gezira (Sudan)
MSc in Systems Engineering (Robotics and Automation) – University of Cardiff (UK)
Doctorate in Manufacturing and Mechanical Engineering – University of Birmingham (UK)
Postgraduate Certificate in Environmental Innovation – University of Manchester (UK)

Leadership Highlights:

Former Vice Chancellor, University of Juba (2014–2024), where he led unprecedented growth:

Expanded from 13 to 23 schools. Student population grew from 10,000 to 40,000 Postgraduate enrolment increased from hundreds to over 5,000. Academic staff increased from 296 to over 1,200 Major improvements in lecture halls, laboratories, ICT, and infrastructure.
Project Director, Mayardit Academy for Space Sciences – University of Juba

Leads the development and management of the Mayardit Academy for Space Sciences, promoting research, education, and innovation in space science, technology, and related STEM fields for South Sudanese students.
Chairperson, Board of Directors – National Communication Authority

Oversees the governance and strategic direction of the National Communication Authority, ensuring effective regulation, development, and advancement of telecommunications and digital infrastructure across South Sudan.
Chairperson – South Sudan Philosophical Society

Guides the South Sudan Philosophical Society in fostering intellectual discourse, promoting philosophical research, ethics, critical thinking, and public engagement to enhance knowledge and societal development.
Member – National Constitutional Review Commission

Participates in reviewing and advising on constitutional reforms, contributing legal, academic, and ethical expertise to ensure fair, inclusive, and sustainable governance frameworks for South Sudan.