Unity State Caretaker Minister of Information and Communications Nyakenya Johannes Keah has appealed to authorities in Panyijiar County to guarantee safe passage for Primary Eight candidates travelling to neighbouring Leer County to sit their 2026 national examinations. The exams are scheduled for November 16–20. Keah stated that the state government had proposed transporting the candidates to Leer and returning them home after the examinations.
The transportation arrangements were agreed upon with UNICEF, and parents had consented to the proposal. However, Panyijiar County Commissioner Stephen Gai Riak and forces under the command of Tap Jiech rejected the arrangement, prohibiting the students from leaving the county. Keah described the situation as deeply regrettable, emphasizing that political disagreements and insecurity should not deprive children of their right to education.
Keah warned that the situation in Panyijiar County has created an unpredictable security environment that could threaten examination invigilators and other personnel. The minister raised concerns over the continued absence of Unity State Government officials from Panyijiar, alleging that some appointed officials had faced arrest, deportation and intimidation whenever they attempted to discharge their duties.
Internal divisions and fighting between forces loyal to Hon. Nathaniel Oyet Peri and those aligned with Hon. Regina Joseph Kaba have contributed to the insecurity. Keah recalled last year’s examination leakage incident in Ganyliel, which resulted in the cancellation of examinations. The government is determined to prevent a similar disruption.
The Unity State Government is concerned that the crisis goes beyond examinations, touching on children’s fundamental rights and equal opportunities. Keah, speaking on behalf of the Unity State Government under Caretaker Governor Dr Joseph Manytuil Wejang, appealed to community leaders, traditional authorities, parents and other stakeholders in Panyijiar to engage their local leadership.
Keah urged all parties to put the interests of the children above political differences and ensure that the candidates travel safely, sit their examinations and return home without obstruction. The minister emphasized that education is a right, not a privilege, and no child should be denied the opportunity to pursue their future because of circumstances beyond their control.
The situation in Panyijiar County highlights the challenges faced by children in South Sudan in accessing education. The government and humanitarian organizations are working to address these challenges and ensure that children have equal opportunities to education.
Key points
- The Unity State government has proposed transporting Primary Eight candidates to Leer County to sit their national examinations.
- The arrangement was rejected by Panyijiar County Commissioner Stephen Gai Riak and forces under the command of Tap Jiech.
- The situation has created an unpredictable security environment that could threaten examination invigilators and other personnel.
