16/08/2026
: Jonglei State Ministry of General Education and Instruction has cancelled the establishment of 44 newly created secondary schools after determining that they failed to meet the legal and educational requirements for operation.
State Minister of General Education and Instruction, Samuel Ador Thon, said the schools lacked essential infrastructure and resources required to provide quality education. According to the ministry, the institutions did not have adequate classrooms, administrative offices, libraries, or qualified teaching staff.
Speaking on the decision, Minister Thon revealed that the schools were created in May 2025 without the approval of the Jonglei State Council of Ministers and the National Ministry of General Education.
“There was no approval from the Council of Ministers,” Thon said, noting that no budget had been allocated to support the operation and long-term sustainability of the schools.
The minister further explained that the establishment of secondary schools requires prior authorization from the national ministry in accordance with South Sudan’s education laws and policies, a process that was not followed in this case.
He emphasized that the state government remains committed to improving access to quality education but will prioritize strengthening existing schools rather than expanding the number of institutions without proper planning and resources.
Thon assured the public that any future secondary schools will only be established after meeting the required standards, securing the necessary approvals, and obtaining adequate funding to ensure effective operation.
The move is expected to help improve educational standards across Jonglei State by ensuring that schools operate within the legal framework and provide a conducive learning environment for students.
