Unregistered private universities in South Sudan were shut down by the National Ministry of Higher Education on Wednesday.

Higher Education Minister Yien Oral Lam said: "We are reminding our colleagues in the ministry of justice to implement the resolution in conjunction with the law enforcement agencies."

Lam cited some private universities' "persistent non-compliance and refusal to be regulated."

“Up to now we have five private universities that are recognized by the Ministry of Higher Education,” he said.

“The recognized private universities are Catholic University, Stafford International University, Star University, St Mary's College and Mary Help College,” he explained.

The government official did not disclose the affected private colleges in the country.

Yien pointed out that the affected private universities failed to meet conditions set by his ministry in order to qualify to acquire a license. He called on university students to enroll in recognized higher learning institutions.

Last month, South Sudan’s parliament warned students against enrolling in unlicensed private universities. The lawmakers called on the National Ministry of Higher Education to close down unlicensed private colleges.