South Sudan Ministry of Education Warns Schools Against Charging Fees in Violation of Free Education Policy

The Ministry of General Education and Instruction has issued a warning to schools that are continuing to charge fees to learners.

The acting minister of education, Martin Moyi, stated that school administrators would be held accountable and could face arrest and trial for violating the constitution, the president’s order, and the policy of general education, which mandates that education is free for everyone.

In a press conference held with the media, Moyi also noted a recent increase in the number of new schools in the country.

This growth was attributed to the capitation grants that the government has been providing, with some counties having over 150 schools.

However, Moyi warned that non-existent schools would not receive any capitation grant. To ensure that the schools receiving grants actually exist, inspectors and director generals will be sent to verify their presence.

President Salva Kiir declared free education in all public schools in February, and the Ministry of Finance and Planning released SSP 1 billion to the Ministry of General Education and Instruction last month to support the program of free education in the country.

South Sudan’s constitution guarantees all children free and compulsory primary and secondary education, and the government is committed to ensuring that this mandate is fulfilled.