Room to Learn - Education for Youth in South Sudan

On Dec.15, violence broke out in Juba, the capital of South Sudan, and spread to other states throughout the country. What started out as a political conflict quickly became a conflict along tribal lines, resulting in the displacement of over 700,000 people (including more than 650,000 displaced within South Sudan), and giving rise to a massive humanitarian crisis. While government and opposition forces signed a ceasefire on Jan. 23, the situation remains tenuous. Despite the current instability, the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology is urging schools to open on time wherever possible, stating, “let our schools be full, let all children go to and continue in school, let South Sudan be a learning, and thus a peaceful, country.”

In the context of this changing and complex environment, Winrock has been reviewing how the Room to Learn project can safely operate. Room to Learn is community based at its core, and the very structure of the project itself goes the farthest toward ensuring its success in providing for children’s safe access to quality education, despite the challenges facing South Sudan. In addition to being rooted in the community, the Room to Learn project is designed to expand education opportunities that are inclusive and promote social cohesion, which is particularly relevant in the current landscape. On behalf of Winrock and our partners, thank you for your generous support. Your commitment is invaluable as we move ahead, and we look forward to sharing news of our progress.