Amidst crisis the national and state education ministries led the first country-wide Joint Sector Review meeting from November 4-6, underlining teachers’ conditions.
In a statement, CRN obtained the states’ education ministries unanimously decried challenges facing teachers including low qualifications, poor salaries and limited female teachers.
The government and education partners estimated 400 thousand girls and boys were forced out of school by the ongoing conflict.
The Joint Review noted some progress made including 60 million South Sudanese Pounds’ grants distributed to 2,700 primary and 200 secondary schools for running costs and improving learning environment.
They said 67 thousand girls received funds to encourage them stay in school and that two Teachers’ Training Institutes are reopening with four more planned.
The statement added that the first ever national curriculum for South Sudan is under development with its framework completed and the first standardized national secondary school exams held.
The Review indicated that 180 thousand girls and boys aged 3-18 are receiving education in emergencies support.