By Carmela Santino Anthony | Voice of Hope Radio
More than 700,000 children are currently out of school in the Bahr el Ghazal region, according to Mr. Manneh Pa Ousman, the Head of Field Office for UNICEF in Greater Bahr el Ghazal.
Speaking at an adult literacy graduation ceremony, Ousman emphasized the urgent need to prioritize education across South Sudan, adding that more than 2 million children nationwide remain out of school.
“As the Head of Field Office for Greater Bahr el Ghazal, I can tell you that over 700,000 children in this region are not going to school.”
He encouraged adult graduates to support education at the family level, ensuring their children are not left behind.
“Education is never too late—even a housewife can benefit from adult literacy,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, Emmanuel Sayiorri, Chief Representative of the European Union Education Program, emphasized the transformative power of education.
“Education transforms lives. I’m from Kenya, and because of education, I’ve traveled abroad and now work in South Sudan,” he said, inspiring attendees with his personal story.
The event not only celebrated adult literacy but also highlighted South Sudan’s urgent educational needs.