SUMMARY

The outbreak of war in Sudan in April 2023 has created immeasurable suffering and damage, threatening critical institutions across the country. Amongst these is Sudanese higher education, which has faced not only the destruction of critical facilities, but also the mass displacement of students and faculty. This report assesses the extent of the damage and how these institutions have, to some degree, continued to operate, despite the extremely difficult conditions. It also highlights the experiences of Sudanese academics and students in displacement as they have attempted to continue their work and rebuild their lives—inside Sudan, as well as in neighbouring countries.

Find the Arabic version of this report here.

This report is a product of the FCDO’s Cross-Border Conflict Evidence, Policy and Trends
(XCEPT) programme, funded by UK aid from the UK government. XCEPT brings together leading experts to examine conflict-affected borderlands, how conflicts connect across borders, and the factors that shape violent and peaceful behaviour. The programme carries out research to better understand the causes and impacts of conflict in border areas and their international dimensions. It supports more effective policymaking and development programming and builds the skills of local partners. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the UK government’s official policies.