This paper adopted an empirical study about the role of higher education in promoting peacebuilding and economic opportunities in a conflict-affected country, particularly, South Sudan. It used structural equation model of 360 survey data collected through semi-structured questionnaires. The study used peacebuilding theory and the 4Rs framework (i.e., Recognition, Redistribution, Representation, Reconciliation) to ascertain how university education might boost peacebuilding and economic transformation in a war-ravaged country. The finding shows there is no direct influence of higher education on peacebuilding and also on economic transformation during times of conflicts and wars. However, it stress the need for peace and security so that citizens can focus on productive activities to improve their socio-economic status. Moreover, good education governance and social inclusion are relatively good factors to bridge the gap between higher education and peacebuilding, and also between higher education and economic transformation. Moreso, the study noted a distinctive better learning environment in private universities than in public universities. Additionally, the study also depicts a worrying state of higher education due to the infiltration of bad politics into the education system and also the radicalization of students a long political affiliations, tribes and regionalism.

Keywords: Higher education, Economic opportunity, Peacebuilding, Post-conflict states, University, South Sudan.