South Sudan Government Launches Scholarship Program for 1,500 Vulnerable Children

By Debora Akur Chol, South Sudan 

The Government of South Sudan has launched a national high school scholarship program targeting 1,500 orphans and disadvantaged children, who will be enrolled at Cornerstone Vision Academy in Aweil, Northern Bahr el Ghazal State.

The initiative, which will run from 2026 to 2029, aims to expand access to secondary education for vulnerable learners across the country. It will cover school fees, uniforms, learning materials, boarding, and other essential support.

Speaking at the launch ceremony on Thursday in Juba under the theme “Empowering Futures, Transforming Lives: A Commitment to Education for All,” the Minister of General Education and Instruction, Kuyok Abol Kuyok, said education should be regarded as a fundamental right rather than a privilege.

Despite progress in primary school enrollment, Kuyok noted that access to secondary education remains a major challenge.

“Our education system continues to struggle with the transition from primary to secondary education. For example, only 45 per cent of the 90,000 pupils who completed primary school last year will secure places in secondary schools this year,” he said, adding that the scholarship program is designed to help bridge this gap.

According to officials, the program prioritises orphans, girls, children affected by conflict, internally displaced learners, returnees, and children with disabilities.

Mary Ayen, Deputy Speaker of the Council of Ministers, described the initiative as a long-term investment in national unity and social cohesion.

“When we transform the upcoming generation, we prepare them to serve this country with knowledge and experience,” Ayen said. “By learning together inside South Sudan, these young people will form the foundation of unity and peaceful coexistence for many years to come.”

Senior Special Presidential Envoy Adut Salva Kiir, who initiated the program, said the scholarship holds personal significance for President Salva Kiir, who lost his parents at a young age.

“This initiative was not born out of national pride or obligation,” Adut said. “It is something very close to the President’s heart. No child should be left behind when it comes to education. We must protect our children.”

Northern Bahr el Ghazal State was selected to host the program due to its record of relative peace. Cornerstone Vision Academy is expected to provide a safe, disciplined, and supportive learning environment.

“The children must feel protected. They must receive nourishment, security, and counselling, because many of them carry deep trauma,” Adut said.

She urged parents, communities, and development partners to support the children beyond financial assistance by offering emotional care and guidance.

Officials said the program is expected to promote girls’ education, strengthen national unity, and help build a skilled generation capable of contributing to peace, development, a

nd stability in South Sudan.