#Education Cannot Wait #Light for the World #South Sudan #Juba

Transformative Education Initiative in South Sudan

In the vibrant and sunlit classrooms of Juba, this year marks a major leap towards inclusive education, thanks to an innovative program spearheaded by Light for the World in conjunction with several key partners, including Save the Children. At the forefront of this initiative is a 24-year-old aspiring teacher named Beatrice, who stands with newfound confidence, mastering sign language techniques that will aid her in unlocking the potential of children with disabilities in her future classroom.

Beatrice, alongside 1,400 fellow aspiring educators from across South Sudan, is receiving vital training in sign language, braille, and inclusive teaching strategies at the Rombur National Teachers Training Institute (RNTTI). This action is part of the Education Cannot Wait (ECW) Multi-Year Resilience Programme, aimed at erasing educational disparities within the nation.

A New Era of Inclusive Education

For Beatrice, her path in teaching has transformed significantly since she embarked on this program. Initially facing challenges in understanding sign language, she now expresses joy and enthusiasm for the learning experience. "At the beginning, it was a bit difficult, but now I enjoy the sessions and we’re learning it with so much love," she shares with her peers. This passionate commitment she demonstrates embodies the transformative spirit of the initiative.

Before joining the RNTTI, Beatrice taught at Sacred Heart Primary School, where visibility of students with disabilities was glaringly low. "You rarely saw children with disabilities there. The lack of trained teachers to teach sign language and braille significantly limited their educational opportunities," she recalls.

The primary goal of this teacher-training project is to dismantle the barriers hindering inclusive education. Over nine months, educators like Beatrice will not only master essential sign language skills but will also be educated on how to create inclusive educational spaces that cater to students of all backgrounds and abilities.

Bridging Educational Gaps

The lack of sufficient teachers equipped with the necessary skills has resulted in a troubling situation for many children with disabilities in South Sudan, where fewer than half of the country’s children are enrolled in schools. The ECW-supported program aims to address this pressing need for qualified instructors who can foster an inclusive environment. "This crucial training will help solve the urgent requirement for qualified teachers in inclusive education, offering support to children with disabilities," explains Mohammed, an advocate of the initiative.

In addition to teacher training, the program is committed to building secure, accessible learning environments and providing essential educational tools for students. Such comprehensive strategies aim to dismantle barriers that often prevent children from exercising their right to quality education.

Another trainee, Alex, eloquently reflects on his own experiences prior to this program. "I taught many students with hearing and visual impairments, and the communication barriers often left me feeling powerless in the classroom. Now, with the knowledge I gain from my training at Light For The World, I look forward to returning to my school equipped with the skills needed to create a better learning environment for all,” he says.

Changing Lives, One Child at a Time

The stories of transformation extend far beyond the classrooms. Take Moses, an 18-year-old student from Magwi County, who faced overwhelming obstacles in attending school due to a broken tricycle. Before the Disability Inclusion Facilitators from Light for the World stepped in to acquire a new tricycle for him, Moses was on the verge of dropping out. This seemingly small donation allowed Moses to resume his education and integrate with his peers once again.

In South Sudan, where conflict and poverty impede access to education for millions, the ECW program aims to uplift the most vulnerable, ensuring children with disabilities are not left behind. Since the program's inception in 2020, it has successfully reached approximately 328,000 children across 14 counties through a budget allocation of nearly $73.8 million, with a significant portion focused on children with disabilities.

A Call to Action

Yet, despite the ongoing efforts and recent successes, education in South Sudan remains vastly underfunded compared to its needs. This is a call for greater global support to close the funding gap and foster a future in which all children, especially those affected by crises, can access education without hindrance.

Reflecting on her learnings, Beatrice feels a compelling mission forming within her. "I intend to encourage parents in my community to enroll their children with disabilities in school and push those already attending to motivate others as well. They have every right to education, like everyone else," she asserts passionately. Her vision extends beyond parent encouragement; it involves a cultural shift towards greater acceptance and inclusion within educational frameworks.

As Beatrice continues practicing her new skills in sign language, her resolve is clear: she’s not just preparing to teach; she’s preparing to foster a more inclusive future for children across South Sudan. With each signing gesture, she lays the groundwork for transformation, ensuring that the dreams of every child can someday align with their right to education.