South Sudanese students on scholarship programs in Zimbabwe have expressed frustration over their government’s failure to pay their tuition fees and feeding allowances.
On June 18, the students, currently studying in five Zimbabwean universities, occupied the embassy in protest against poor living conditions, while Juba confirmed they are aware of their demands.
Achok Rebecca Makuac, a student, told Radio Tamazuj Monday that they are affected by government's delay to pay their arrears.
She said they are stranded with no food, cannot return to Juba and that it will be difficult for them to receive their academic certificates.
Makuac appealed to the finance minister, Salvatore Garang Mabiordit to prioritize their demands as they stay in open spaces at the embassy.
On his part, the president of the South Sudanese students association in Zimbabwe, Moses Kat Manyok described the situation of the students who currently stay at their embassy as “inhuman”.
He ruled out any form of violence from the stranded students, but urged the government to act by responding to their demands.
“Our patient is running out,” said Manyok.
South Sudan’s Information Minister, Michael Makuei Lueth earlier said the government is concerned about the situation of students in Zimbabwe, noting that the Minister of Higher Education has already been assigned to follow up issues of the arrears with the finance ministry.