Aweil South launches teachers’ training program to boost qualifications

AWEIL – The Ministry of General Education in Northern Bahr el Ghazal State, in collaboration with its partners, has launched an in-service training initiative targeting teachers who have not completed their primary or secondary education.

The program, known as the Accelerated Secondary Education Programme, is designed to help unqualified teachers attain their secondary school certificates while continuing with their teaching duties. It forms part of the government’s broader capacity-building efforts to enhance the quality of education in the state.

The initiative was officially rolled out in Aweil South County, with plans to enrol 100 teachers. So far, 77 teachers—including 47 men and 30 women—have registered for the first intake.

Speaking to Sudans Post on Friday, Aweil South County Education Director Valentino Manok said the program is an important milestone in strengthening the teaching profession in the area.

“We have registered 77 teachers so far, and we are still encouraging others to join. Those who are interested can pick up registration forms from the Ministry of Education,” said Manok.

He noted that many teachers in the region were unable to complete their education due to years of civil conflict and economic hardship.

“During the liberation struggle, most of our people did not have the opportunity to finish school, yet they dedicated themselves to teaching from the bottom of their hearts. Now that we have relative peace, we must give them a chance to improve their qualifications,” Manok added.

He appealed to teachers who have not yet registered to take advantage of the opportunity, emphasizing that the project is supported by the World Bank and may not be a recurring chance.

Meanwhile, John Lual Akol, a secondary school head teacher in Aweil South, welcomed the initiative, saying it would help address gaps in teaching standards.

“Many teachers lack adequate knowledge in some subjects. This program will help them strengthen their skills. It will be conducted during school breaks, so it will not interfere with the normal learning calendar,” Akol explained.

The Accelerated Secondary Education Programme is implemented by Windle Trust International with funding from the World Bank. The initiative is being rolled out in several parts of South Sudan, including Eastern Equatoria and Northern Bahr el Ghazal states.

Residents have also expressed optimism that the program will rejuvenate the teaching sector, reduce teacher turnover, and encourage those who had abandoned the profession to return to classrooms.