Examinations for around 2,000 pupils in 23 primary schools in Leer County, Unity State, have been postponed until November 9 due to ongoing fighting between rival factions of the opposition SPLA-IO. The education director in Leer County, Gatjung Gatwang Tap, confirmed the postponement, citing the security situation as the reason for the delay. The affected pupils include 700 girls and 1,300 boys.
The fighting between SPLA-IO factions, led by Regina Joseph and Oyet Nathaniel, has disrupted examinations in areas under opposition control. Gatjung Gatwang Tap stated that the county education authorities decided to postpone exams for Primary One and Primary Seven pupils until November 9. The affected schools include Bow Primary School, Rupkong Primary School, and Adok Primary School, among others.
John Nhial Gatluok, headteacher of Bow Primary School, confirmed the postponement, saying the examinations had been moved to next week due to the tensions within the SPLA-IO in Leer County. The postponement highlights the impact of internal divisions within the opposition movement on access to education in parts of Unity State.
Leer County is a significant location, being the birthplace of opposition leader Riek Machar and a longstanding political stronghold. The fighting stems from a leadership dispute within the SPLA-IO following Riek Machar's detention in March 2025. The rivalry escalated in August 2026 after Oyet Nathaniel and Regina Joseph Kaba suspended each other, each claiming authority to lead the movement.
The dispute has since spread to the military, triggering clashes between rival forces. This has created a challenging environment for education in the region, with pupils and teachers affected by the insecurity. The postponement of exams is a direct result of the ongoing conflict.
The education sector in Leer County faces significant challenges due to the conflict. With many schools affected, pupils are at risk of falling behind in their studies. The county education authorities are working to ensure that pupils can continue their education despite the challenges.
The situation in Leer County highlights the need for a resolution to the conflict within the SPLA-IO and for the restoration of peace and stability in the region. This will enable pupils to access education without disruptions and ensure that their academic progress is not hindered by the ongoing fighting.
Key points
- Exams for 2,000 pupils in Leer County postponed due to fighting between rival SPLA-IO factions.
- The fighting stems from a leadership dispute within the SPLA-IO following Riek Machar's detention in March 2025.
- The postponement highlights the impact of internal divisions within the opposition movement on access to education in parts of Unity State.
