Windle Trust, in partnership with UNICEF and the Government of Western Equatoria State, has concluded a three-day training for school tutors aimed at promoting quality and inclusive education ahead of the reopening of schools.
The training, held from Monday to Wednesday in Yambio, brought together tutors from various schools and learning centers across the state. The initiative focused on strengthening teaching skills, promoting child-friendly and learner-centered approaches, and preparing tutors to support students.
Speaking during the training, Jonathan Bage, the Windle Trust focal person in the state, said the programme is designed to build the capacity of tutors to deliver quality education and create safe, supportive learning environments for children.
“I want to thank the Government of Western Equatoria State for providing an enabling environment. This training will continue and will not end,” he said. “The world is changing, curricula must be reviewed regularly, books should be updated, and teaching methods must improve to meet modern standards.”
Bage added that education is a lifelong process and requires continuous improvement.
For his part, Sebit Jacob Henry, a consultant and trainer from Windle Trust Juba, commended Windle Trust, UNICEF, and the state government for their support in equipping tutors with essential skills.
“Education has been severely affected by years of conflict in South Sudan,” he stated. “We need education to fight tribalism, hatred, corruption, illiteracy, discrimination, and greed, and to prepare responsible citizens for the future.”
Jacob emphasized that unity and collaboration among stakeholders such as Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs), School Management Committees (SMCs), and Boards of Governors (BoGs) are critical in bringing positive change to schools.
Meanwhile, Clement Gbatanawo, the UNICEF head of office in Western Equatoria State, said the training serves as a refresher to ensure tutors are well-prepared before schools reopen.
“Learning is continuous, and what tutors have learned must be put into practice,” he said. “Strengthening PTAs, planning, and community mobilization are essential for school development.”
Gbatanawo stressed that training PTAs is vital to improving the school system, ensuring children remain in school, and guaranteeing their protection both at home and in school.
Bernad Dasio, Director of Quality Assurance and Standards at the State Ministry of General Education and Instruction, urged education partners to continue collaborating with the government to promote quality education in the state.
“I encourage tutors to go back to the field and apply what they have learned to improve the education system. Together, we can bring real change,” he said.
The training covered key areas including lesson planning, classroom management, child protection, psychosocial support, and inclusive education practices. Tutors were also guided on supporting learners affected by prolonged school closures, displacement, and other challenges.
As schools begin registration for the new academic year, Western Equatoria State has taken a leading role in preparation, with more than ten tutors successfully completing the three-day training in Yambio.