South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Awan Achiek
A student from the University of Juba, the oldest institution in South Sudan, has emerged victorious in the 12th African Organization for Standardization (ARSO) annual essay competition.
The ARSO 12th Continental Essay Competition aims to engage African youth in discussions about the role of standards in economic and social development.
This year, the competition was held under the theme “The Role of Education about Standardization in Shaping African Students for Sustainable Development in the 21st Century.”
The event took place in Zanzibar, Tanzania, from June 23 to June 27, 2025.
Mr. Mapour Puoric Manyiel, a student at the University of Juba, achieved 6th place in this prestigious continental essay competition, which attracted participation from over 200 young writers across Africa.
His achievement has been celebrated as a significant academic milestone for South Sudan, showcasing the country’s growing visibility in intellectual and standardization fields across the continent.
“The South Sudan National Bureau of Standards (SSNBS) proudly announces that Mr. Mapour Puoric Manyiel from the University of Juba secured 6th place in the 12th ARSO continental essay competition,” Gloria Nyoka Joseph, executive director of SSNBS, said in a statement issued on Monday.
Nyoka highlighted that Mr. Manyiel was recognised for his exceptional writing and critical thinking skills.
“ARSO Secretary General, Dr. Hermogene Nssengimana, praised his achievement, placing him among the very best young writers on the continent.”
Ms. Nyoka also received a certificate of recognition for successfully organising the competition nationally for the first time, joining 19 other African standards bodies.
The ARSO General Assembly is the highest governing body of the African Organization for Standardization, bringing together national standards bodies and other key stakeholders across the continent.
The event plays a vital role in setting regional policies, harmonising standards, promoting quality infrastructure, and supporting trade facilitation under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
