Kapoeta North County, in Eastern Equatoria State, faces some of the most significant barriers to education in South Sudan. Long distances to schools, limited infrastructure, economic hardship, and high dropout rates continue to affect children's access to learning, particularly for girls and vulnerable learners. Through the Multi-Year Resilience Programme, funded by Education Cannot Wait, AVSI has supported 15 formal and non-formal learning centres, reaching more than 5,000 learners and strengthening access to education across the county.
Since the start of the intervention, school enrolment in targeted schools has increased by approximately 60%, with a significant rise in the number of girls returning to school. In addition, 600 previously out-of-school children and adolescents have enrolled in the Alternative Learning Programme, creating opportunities to resume their education and transition into formal learning pathways.
Strengthening teaching quality through training
A key component of the project focuses on improving the quality of learning by strengthening teachers' skills. To date, 67 teachers have received training in classroom management, inclusive education, and child-centred teaching methodologies, helping create more participatory and supportive learning environments.
Hellen Wangila, a teacher at Riwoto Primary School, explains how the training has influenced her work:
We received training on inclusive learning, where we consider every single learner in the lesson. Whether they have disabilities or face other vulnerable situations, we make sure they are included in our education system. This has really improved learning because lessons are now more interactive.
Hellen Wangila, Teacher at Riwoto Primary School
Students have also observed changes in classroom practices. Mazira Janet, a Primary 6 pupil at Riwoto Primary School, says:
We work in groups and help each other. Our teachers explain things clearly and give us plenty of time to practice
Mazira Janet, student at Riwoto Primary School
Alternative learning opportunities for out-of-school children
For many children and adolescents who left school due to economic hardship or other challenges, the Alternative Learning Programme provides a pathway back into education.
Mary Irene, 17, is one of the learners who benefited from the programme and is now studying at St. Mary Magdalene Secondary School.
I dropped out of school because my family was facing severe financial challenges. When I heard about the program, I felt hopeful. It gave me a second chance to be in school. I feel re-energized and confident now. My dream is to become a teacher so I can support other girls in school.
Mary Irene, student
Her experience reflects the opportunities created for hundreds of young people who would otherwise remain outside the education system.
Expanding access to practical science learning
The project also supports the quality of secondary education through investments in learning infrastructure. At Tim Galvin Secondary School, AVSI established a science laboratory that is currently used by 116 students for practical science lessons.
For Andrew Lodikio, one of the students using the facility, access to hands-on learning has strengthened both his understanding of science subjects and his future aspirations.
I believe I can now pursue higher education in science-related fields. The practical skills we are learning here will prepare us well for future university and employment opportunities
Andrew Lodikio, student at Tim Galvin Secondary School
Supporting education through a multi-partner approach
The Multi-Year Resilience Programme brings together partners working to improve access, quality, and inclusion in education for vulnerable children and young people across South Sudan. In Kapoeta North, activities have focused on strengthening schools, improving teaching quality, expanding opportunities for out-of-school learners, and creating more inclusive learning environments.
By combining teacher training, support to formal and non-formal education, and investments in school infrastructure, the programme is helping address some of the key barriers that prevent children and adolescents from accessing and completing their education.
