Many children in Kapoeta North County, Eastern Equatoria State, face immense challenges accessing quality education. Conflicts, displacement, and economic hardship have left many without resources to pursue formal schooling. The Education Cannot Wait MYRP project, implemented through AVSI Foundation, aims to change this narrative by providing comprehensive educational support to vulnerable girls while allowing them to remain with their families.
Lilian, one of the scholarship beneficiaries, says the program has opened her eyes to various career options. "I hope to become a five-star nurse after finishing my studies," she shares. She explains that the scholarship covers school fees, uniforms, stationery such as pens, exercise books, pencils, and dignity kits, ensuring she can stay in school and focus on her studies.
Lilian,16, is among the 39 learners who face numerous challenges to go to school. Her parents were unable to support her education financially due to the perceptions that young girls are meant to take care of the children and do domestic works that coach them ready for marriage, a move that prevents many girls from accessing learning opportunities and making it difficult to continue their education in South Sudan.
IN 2023, she got a MYRP scholarship for girls from vulnerable family. After receiving the materials and through career guidance and mentorship in school by AVSI, the 16 years old continue to progress and became one of the best performing learners in P.7at St. Mary primary school.
Cultural norms and practices have traditionally expected young girls to take on childcare responsibilities and household chores, preventing them from accessing learning opportunities and making it difficult to continue their education.
Annet, another MYRP program beneficiary, shares her experience: "The scholarship has helped me tremendously. Before AVSI's support, coming to school was challenging due to lack of money for fees, learning materials, and transportation. This often forced me to stay home, but now with this scholarship, I can regularly attend school.
With her parents unable to support her education financially, the scholarship has been instrumental in helping her continue her studies at St. Mary Primary School.
The program seeks to break the cycle of poverty and vulnerability through education, recognizing it as a fundamental tool for community development. Through comprehensive support that includes tuition fees, uniforms, learning materials, and mentoring programs, AVSI Foundation is ensuring that girls can focus on their education without the burden of financial constraints.
