Open Letter to the Honorable Minister of General Education and Instruction

This article is an open letter to Hon. Minister Prof. Kuyok Abol Kuyok congratulating him on his appointment and outlining urgent priorities for improving South Sudan’s education system. Key points include timely exam results, system reforms, combating exam malpractice, and enhancing teacher recruitment and training.

An open letter addressed to Hon. Minister Prof. Kuyok Abol Kuyok extends congratulations on his recent appointment as the Minister for General Education and Instruction, highlighting the significance of his prior service in the ministry. It emphasizes the urgent tasks ahead that necessitate his focused attention to effectively enhance the education system in South Sudan.

The writer, Dr. Geng Geng, identifies himself as a medical professional with considerable experience in integrated educational support initiatives, delineating several pressing points for the Minister to address.

1. Timely Release of Examination Results: Ensuring the prompt release of Primary Leaving Certificates and Senior Four exam results is crucial for the academic progress of students. Delays can hinder their ability to transition smoothly to higher educational phases.

2. Improving Educational Standards: Reforms are essential to align the education system with international best practices, which includes curriculum updates, enhanced teacher training, and resource allocation for quality education. Elevating standards is vital for preparing students competitively.

3. Combating Exam Malpractice: The integrity of the educational system is jeopardized by issues like exam leakage and cheating. Implementing stringent security measures and fostering a culture of honesty is necessary to uphold integrity in educational achievements.

4. Teacher Training and Payment: An immediate increase in trained teachers and the assurance of timely salary payments are critical. The current lack of qualified educators directly affects the quality of education provided to students.

5. Promoting Girl Child Education: Emphasizing the need for girls’ education is paramount, as it plays a significant role in community and national advancement. Addressing the cultural and social barriers contributing to high dropout rates among girls is essential.

6. Prioritizing Emergency Education Programs: In conflict-prone regions, emergency education initiatives, such as “Education Cannot Wait,” must be prioritized to ensure children continue receiving education amid crises.

7. Addressing Teaching Resources: A shortage of basic educational resources, including textbooks and infrastructure, poses a barrier to effective learning. It is vital to address these deficiencies to foster an encouraging learning environment.

8. Championing Qualified Teacher Recruitment: Ensuring that only duly qualified educators are recruited is critical for maintaining educational standards. Currently, many underqualified individuals are employed, impeding the overall quality of teaching.

Dr. Geng Geng underscores the pivotal nature of the Minister’s leadership, expressing confidence in his ability to enact meaningful changes that will enhance the educational landscape in South Sudan. The letter concludes with a note of optimism and encouragement for the Minister to take decisive steps in fulfilling these critical objectives for the future of the nation.

In conclusion, Dr. Geng Geng’s open letter to Hon. Minister Prof. Kuyok Abol Kuyok highlights essential priorities for improving South Sudan’s education system. By focusing on timely exam results, reforming educational standards, combatting malpractice, recruiting qualified teachers, and promoting girl child education, the Minister has the opportunity to significantly impact the nation’s educational landscape. Addressing these priorities will foster a brighter future for South Sudanese children.

Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org