The Sudanese Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research announced that the ongoing armed conflict between the SAF and the RSF in the capital city of Khartoum and in the western region of the country has made it difficult to reopen higher education institutions in the country, including in regions not affected by the conflict.
"Based on the directives of the Cabinet of Ministers issued on August 13, 2023, to postpone the opening of universities to a later date to be determined in mid-October 2023, it was decided to suspend studies and all academic activities in all public, private and private higher education institutions and not to open universities until a later date to be determined," the ministry said on Monday.
The ministry cited the displacement of millions of people from Khartoum and its two twin cities, Khartoum North and Omdurman, which prompted the use of the facilities of the Student Support Fund, which operates state-run student dormitories across the country, as shelters for those fleeing the conflict.
The conditions of the fall season, which make it difficult to travel between regions, as well as the instability of electricity and communication networks, are also among the reasons for the Ministry's decision to suspend studies.
On April 15, large-scale clashes erupted between the Sudanese army, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the Rapid Support Forces, led by Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, in various areas of Sudan. Both sides have sought to take control of strategic facilities, including the presidential palace and a number of military and civilian airports in Khartoum and other cities.
The conflict was caused by the issue of the integration of the RSF into the Sudanese army. The Sudanese army demanded that the process be completed within two years, while the RSF insisted on a ten-year period.
Despite several temporary ceasefires by both sides, the fighting continues. The UN estimates that thousands of people have been killed and some three million displaced.