Dear Hon. Minister, Prof. Kuyok Abol Kuyok
First and foremost, congratulations on the trust President Salva Kiir Mayardit bestowed upon you in appointing you as the new Minister for General Education and Instruction. This appointment recognizes your exemplary service over the years, particularly during your tenure as the long-term Under Secretary in the same ministry. Your experience and dedication are invaluable assets as you take on this critical role.
As you assume this position, be reminded that there are pressing tasks that require your immediate attention to ensure the education system in South Sudan meets the needs of our students and the nation.
Before I begin to mention the points of concern for education system improvement in South Sudan, allow me to remind the readers that I am not a teacher or official from the education ministry who might know everything to mention in relation country’s education priorities, however, I am doctor and humanitarian who has worked to support education for many years with Health, WASH and Education Integrated Projects, which has given me insights into the key challenges facing the education system in South Sudan at this critical movement.
Below are eight suggested key points that demand your urgent action to change the current face of our education system:
1. Timely release of examination results
It is imperative to ensure that the results for both the Primary Leaving Certificates and Senior Four examinations are released on time.
Delays in releasing results disrupt the academic progression of students, causing them to fall behind their peers. With the school calendar already underway, the timely release will allow students to transition smoothly to the next stages of their education without unnecessary setbacks.
2. Improving the education system to meet the best standards
The education system in South Sudan requires significant reforms to align with international best practices. This includes updating curricula, improving teacher training, and ensuring that schools have the necessary resources to provide quality education. By raising the standards of our education system, we can equip our students with the knowledge and skills needed to compete globally and contribute meaningfully to the development of our nation.
3. Combating exam leakage and cheating
Exam malpractice, including leakage and cheating, undermines the integrity of our education system and devalues the achievements of hardworking students. It is crucial to implement strict measures to discourage and eliminate these practices. This may involve strengthening examination security, enforcing stricter penalties for offenders, and promoting a culture of honesty and integrity among students, teachers, and administrators.
4. Teacher training and timely payment
There is an urgent need to increase the number of trained teachers and ensure they are paid on time. The poor quality of education in many areas is directly linked to the lack of qualified teachers and their demotivation due to delayed salaries. Investing in teacher training and ensuring timely remuneration will significantly improve the quality of education.
5. Promoting girl child education
Educating girls is one of the most effective ways to uplift communities and the nation as a whole. High dropout rates among girls due to cultural, economic, and social barriers must be addressed. By promoting girl child education, we can ensure that future generations of women are empowered to contribute to the nation’s development.
6. Prioritizing emergency education programs
In conflict-affected areas, emergency education programs such as “Education Cannot Wait” and Accelerated Learning Programs (ALP) are critical. These programs ensure that children in crisis zones do not miss out on education. Prioritizing and scaling up such initiatives will help bridge the gap for those most affected by instability.
7. Addressing the lack of teaching resources
Many schools lack basic teaching materials such as textbooks, stationery, and proper infrastructure. Addressing these shortages is essential to creating a conducive learning environment for students and teachers alike.
8. Championing professional teacher recruitment
There is a need to ensure that only qualified and trained teachers are recruited into the education system. Currently, many individuals without teaching qualifications are employed as teachers, while qualified educators are working in other sectors. Teaching at primary and secondary levels requires specialized training, and this standard must be upheld to improve the quality of education.
Hon. Minister, your leadership comes at a pivotal moment for education in South Sudan. The steps you take today will have a lasting impact on the future of our nation. By addressing these challenges head-on, you will not only restore confidence in our education system but also pave the way for a brighter future for our children.
Once again, congratulations on your appointment. We are confident that under your stewardship, the Ministry of General Education and Instruction will achieve remarkable progress.
The writer, Dr. Geng Geng, is a dedicated medical professional and public health practitioner. He is currently pursuing a Masters of Public Health (MPH) at the Upper Nile University with a focus on Global Health, Epidemiology, and Health Policy. He is also actively engaged in humanitarian work and can be reached via lukageng@gmail.com
The views expressed in ‘opinion’ articles published by Radio Tamazuj are solely those of the writer. The veracity of any claims made is the responsibility of the author, not Radio Tamazuj.