Ministry Validates Safe Schools Guidelines, Calls for Nationwide Implementation

• Oct 12, 2026
• Awut Deng Jr.

Juba, 9 October 2026 - The Ministry of General Education and Instruction has concluded a three-day workshop to validate the Safe Schools Guidelines, with a strong call for the document to be effectively disseminated and implemented in schools across South Sudan.

Closing the workshop, the Undersecretary of the Ministry of General Education and Instruction commended the Technical Working Group, presenters, and both national and international consultants for their commitment and expertise in developing what he described as an important and comprehensive document aimed at enhancing safety in schools.

He stressed that the guidelines must reach schools at all levels and not remain confined to state headquarters.

“The guidelines should not remain at the state headquarters. Many guidelines are kept at headquarters and do not reach the schools. Schools must benefit directly from this work,” the Undersecretary said.

The Undersecretary, Hon. Omot, emphasized the need for practical implementation, strong ownership at the state level, and close collaboration among relevant line ministries to ensure the success of the initiative.

Speaking on behalf of participants, a representative from the Central Equatoria State Ministry of General Education and Instruction called for strict adherence to safe school rules and regulations to protect children and create conducive learning environments. “If our schools are safe, our children are safe,” the representative said.

National and international consultants thanked the Ministry for the opportunity to support the development of the guidelines and praised participants for their valuable contributions and local expertise, which significantly strengthened the document. They noted that the guidelines provide clear and practical procedures for prevention, preparedness, and response to various risks, helping ensure that schools remain safe and protective learning spaces.

International Consultant Sadeeq Garba expressed appreciation to UNICEF, the Ministry, and workshop participants for their commitment throughout the process.

“We extend our gratitude to UNICEF, the Ministry of General Education and Instruction, and all participants. Over the past three days, we have received a very warm reception and witnessed enthusiastic participation throughout the workshop,” he said.

Representing UNICEF, Duku Francis reaffirmed the organization's commitment to supporting the Government of South Sudan in ensuring that every child learns in a safe environment. He described the Safe Schools Guidelines as a significant milestone for child protection, particularly in emergency contexts, and commended the Ministry for its leadership in advancing the initiative.

The Ministry is expected to officially launch and disseminate the validated Safe Schools Guidelines to all states in the coming weeks, marking an important step toward strengthening child protection and creating safer learning environments across South Sudan.