Save the Children, an international NGO that focuses on children’s welfare has applauded the government of South Sudan's decision to reopen schools but cautions much still needs to be done.

Last week, the government announced that all the higher institutions of learning and schools should be opened, after more than 6 months of closure owing to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Save the Children’s Country Director in South Sudan Rama Hansraj in a statement said they welcome the decision taken by the government to re-open schools and ease concerns on how COVID-19 has affected children’s rights to survival, protection, and learning while at home.

The director urged the government to ensure that children who are out of school are mobilized to resume their education and to put in place the necessary health guidance to ensure that children, teachers, and their parents are protected from potential risks posed by the COVID-19.

The statement further appealed to the government and other education partners to fight against barriers to children's education in the country including sexual violence and child marriage.

"Attention should also be paid in rebuilding schools as 1 in 3 schools have been damaged, destroyed, occupied or closed and only 3.5% of girls are enrolled in secondary schools.," the statement read in part.

Save the Children also called on the government to provide all children with access to information about COVID-19 in all languages and guard against rumors and misinformation.