The imminent celebration of independence will bring about healing from past pains and communion between the living and the dead.
This is the view some female students from Rumbek’s Loreto Girls Secondary School shared with Good News Radio.Mary Nyanachok, a third year student, said that the celebration of Independence will bring her into communion with her dad who died during the war.
She said although she will see him physically, the celebration will mark a spiritual union with his late father.
Ms. Nyanachok urged South Sudanese who lost their loved ones during the war to feel united with them on Independence Day to dry their tears.
Ms. Nyanachok expressed hope that an independent South Sudan will bring positive change in education, health and development.
She urged the government of South Sudan to prioritize education after the celebration of independence, arguing that education is the key to improved lives for South Sudanese.
Priscilla Ayen Dhieu described Independence Day as the day the people of South Sudan have been waiting for, likening it to the biblical prophecies about the coming of the Messiah.
Ms. Ayen urged all South Sudanese to get involved in building their new nation after Independence Day, insisting that only hard work will bring development to South Sudan.
She urged people to stop fighting over cattle.
The celebration of Independence this Saturday will be an emotional festivity given the painful past experiences of South Sudanese.