By Lodu William Odiya
Marking of Senior four examinations has delayed for about six months due to liquidity crisis. The Ministry of General Education has just announced; the exercise will start next week.
Speaking to National Broadcaster, Education Minister, Kuyok Abol Kuyok noted that although funds had been approved, liquidity challenges at central bank caused a delay.
According to minister Kuyok, officials at the central bank were doing their best to resolve the issue, adding that markers would be able to travel to juba and begin the exercise.
“The marking exercise will start next week, we understand the frustration this delay has caused for students and families across the country, and we are committed to ensuring the process moves forward swiftly and transparently” the minister stated.
The delay had raised concerns among students, parents, and education stakeholders, with many fearing it could impact academic calendars and university admissions.
However, the ministry of general education has appealed for continued patience and assured the public that the results will be released as soon as marking is completed.
Meanwhile, Center for Peace and Advocacy (CPA), expressed a deep concern over the delay in releasing South Sudan Certificate of Secondary Education results.
In a statement, the civil society organization emphasized that education is fundamental right guaranteed under the laws of South Sudan, noting that recurring postponement in examination process is a violation.
CPA called on the Ministry of General Education and Instruction to strictly adhere to the academic calendar and ensure that all processes, including examination marking and result release, are completed within the stipulated time frame.
“Such delays have long-term consequences for students who are eligible to join universities, as well as for those transitioning to secondary school, many of whom miss critical opportunities due to administrative inefficiencies” statement read.
The organization urged the Government of South Sudan to prioritize education nationwide, adding that a country that does not invest in an educated population lacks the knowledge base necessary for sustainable development and progress.