By Deng Ghai Deng
Bishop Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala of the Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio, in a heartfelt letter dated August 26, 2024, has lauded Awut Deng Acuil, Minister of General Education and Instruction, for her steadfast commitment to enhancing education across South Sudan.
The Bishop’s message underlines the crucial role of education in shaping the nation’s future and reaffirms the Church’s unwavering support for the Minister’s initiatives.
In his statement, Bishop Hiiboro commended Minister Awut Deng for her recent address to South Sudanese schoolchildren, which encouraged them to reject dishonesty and fully embrace their potential.
“Your message was both timely and vital,” Bishop Hiiboro remarked. “It is a testament to your relentless dedication to the betterment of our nation’s future. By urging our youth to uphold integrity and strive for excellence, you are laying the foundation for a prosperous South Sudan.”
The Bishop emphasized that education is fundamental to national progress and the development of various professions essential for societal advancement.
“Education is the cornerstone upon which all progress is built,” Hiiboro stated. “It is through quality education that we will cultivate future doctors, engineers, leaders, and professionals who will drive our country forward.”
Bishop Hiiboro also addressed the opposition to the Minister’s educational reforms, asserting that those who undermine these efforts are impeding national progress.
“We must recognize that the future of South Sudan hinges on our collective support for educational initiatives,” he declared. “Those who stand against this cause are, in essence, hindering the advancement of our nation.”
Reiterating the Church’s full backing, Bishop Hiiboro assured Minister Awut Deng of the Catholic Diocese’s support.
“We stand with you,” he affirmed. “With your leadership, we are confident that the youth of South Sudan will rise to meet the challenges of tomorrow, equipped with the knowledge and values that only a robust education can provide.”
In closing, the Bishop extended his prayers and blessings to Minister Awut Deng, expressing hope for continued divine guidance in her educational endeavors.
“May God continue to bless you in your noble work,” Hiiboro concluded. “Your efforts are crucial in guiding our nation’s educational landscape and securing a brighter future for our children.”
Over 17,000 candidates in the recently released S.4 exams did not perform at the level required to pass them into institutions of higher learning.
The performance had declined compared to previous years. Out of 44,131 candidates, only 26,440 passed and qualified for varsity admission.
This poor result, which showed almost half of the total number of candidates failed, sparked mixed reactions among members of the public, with some blaming the Ministry of General Education for the failure.
Others thanked Minister Awut Deng for fighting exam malpractices, which exposed the weakness of candidates who heavily depended on cheating exams, thus resulting in poor performance.
However, the National Examination Council (NEC) has justified the poor performance, stating that the performance in the 2023 CSE examinations was an indication of a positive step toward improving teaching and learning in schools.