Back to learning: Opening doors to education for every child

In South Sudan, education is more than classrooms. It is hope, protection, and opportunity.

children are photographed in the classroom smiling at Oyere Primary School, South Sudan
UNICEF South Sudan/Naftalin

Why education matters

Education is a lifeline for children in South Sudan. It provides safety, skills, and the chance to build a brighter future. Yet, conflict, poverty, climate change and displacement continue to keep thousands of children out of school.

Educated children will grow up to be good people one day in the future. They will do something marvellous for this country.

Teresa John, a teacher in South Sudan
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UNICEF South Sudan/Mark Naftalin

Behind every rebuilt classroom and every dedicated teacher is a story of resilience and hope. In South Sudan, children are returning to learning in spaces once destroyed, now restored, and guided by teachers who refuse to give up on their students. These stories show how education is not only about books and lessons — it is about rebuilding futures, one classroom and one child at a time.

UNICEF support teachers and help rebuild classrooms

From 500 to 700 pupils: New school drives enrollment

UNICEF’s construction of Aguath Primary School encourages students to enroll even before completion

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Back to School Campaign

Empowering South Sudan’s Future Through Education

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Keeping girls in school by helping them manage their periods

Menstruation for women and girls does not stop for an emergency.

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Investing in the welfare and training of teachers improves

Motivated and trained teachers are critical to quality education in South Sudan

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Voices of children

Children are not only learners, they are powerful advocates for their own right to education. Their voices echo the urgency of opening school doors and keeping them open. Through debates, workshops, and storytelling, young people are speaking out about the barriers they face and the dreams they hold. Their words remind us that education is more than a service: it is a promise to every child.

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UNICEF South Sudan/Sylvano/Nelson
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UNICEF South Sudan/Lou Nelson

Education in remote areas: Overcoming barriers, creating opportunities

Across South Sudan, children face enormous challenges in accessing education. Many schools have been damaged or closed due to conflict, families struggle with poverty and displacement, and girls often encounter barriers such as early marriage and household responsibilities. In remote areas, the journey to school can be long, unsafe, or simply impossible.

Yet, despite these obstacles, hope is being rebuilt. UNICEF and partners are working to reopen classrooms, train teachers, and provide learning materials. Accelerated learning programmes are helping children who missed years of schooling catch up. Health and water supplies are being delivered to keep children safe, while psychosocial support ensures they can focus on learning.

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UNICEF South Sudan/Mark Naftalin

Education stories

The sound of the school bell lights the day of children

Schools reopen at the Malakal Protection of Civilians PoC site

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Teachers and students rejoice as schools reopen

UNICEF and education partners launch communication campaign to advocate for more training and support for teachers.

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Desire enjoys her new school

African Development Bank through UNICEF is supporting South Sudan's Education System

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Supporting Teachers in Lakes State

A path to improved education in South Sudan

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Building dreams: transforming education in South Sudan

Empowering communities and constructing classrooms for a better learning environment

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What about the right to education?

2.8 million children remain out of school

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