From War to Wires: 16-Year-Old Ex-Child Soldier Seeks Engineering Scholarship

By Waure Eddy

A 16-year-old former child soldier is seeking sponsorship to study engineering and electricity, determined to transform a life once marked by conflict into one of innovation and hope. After surviving the horrors of war, he now dreams of rebuilding his future—and that of others—through technology.

Beyo David George, a determined 16-year-old, is reaching out to partners, well-wishers, and the government for support in pursuing his dream of studying engineering and electricity.

David, who was previously associated with an armed group in Tambura County, found renewed hope after being released through the efforts of the State Ministry of Gender, Child and Social Welfare and UNICEF.

Since his reintegration, he has received support from Save-Life Initiative South Sudan (SLI), a national non-governmental organisation dedicated to assisting vulnerable children.

Having completed a six-month vocational training programme at Tindoka Vocational Training Centre, David is eager to continue his education and professional development.

“When I was in the bush, I often thought about my future,” he recalls. “I was responsible for connecting power where our leaders stayed. Now, thanks to Save-Life Initiative (SLI), I am building my skills and hoping for sponsorship.”

David acknowledges the support he has received so far but remains hopeful for more opportunities. “SLI has done a lot for me, and I am grateful. I am talented; I have designed this house and connected power, and I am ready to work, but I need help to go further,” he said.

Alex Baptist Sutupai, Senior Programme Coordinator of SLI, emphasises the organisation’s commitment to rehabilitating former child soldiers in Yambio, Ezo, and Tambura Counties.

“We provide child protection and comprehensive case management services with the support of the State Ministry and UNICEF,” he stated. “We have already graduated 27 children from Tindoka Vocational Training Centre, and David is among our most talented and hardworking trainees.”

SLI continues to monitor at-risk children across Western Equatoria State, ensuring they have access to vocational programmes instead of resorting to dangerous paths. “We want to keep these children engaged in meaningful work so they do not fall back into harmful situations,” Alex added.

David’s plea is a reminder of the resilience and ambition of young people who, given the right support, can rebuild their lives and contribute positively to their communities.