Teachers Receive Training as CSE Pilot Programme Launches in Juba

By Simon Deng

The Public Health Advocacy Foundation (PHAF) has conducted a one-day intensive training session for 22 teachers in Juba in preparation for the rollout of the Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) Pilot Programme in five primary schools.

John Oyet Taban, the Executive Director of PHAF, stated that Comprehensive Sexuality Education aims to enhance sexual health and rights.

Taban described the programme as part of Africa’s movement towards self-driven health solutions, emphasising that the training focused on culturally sensitive, age-appropriate delivery of CSE content and the creation of safe, open learning environments.

“At PHAF, we believe that empowering teachers empowers generations. When educators are equipped with the right tools, Africa moves closer to solutions led by its own people,” Taban said on Monday during the opening of the training in Juba.

 He revealed that teachers from Munuki East, Libya, and Gudele East were trained in core CSE concepts, facilitation skills, safeguarding procedures, and lesson planning for the pilot rollout.

“With strengthened teacher capacity and a strong commitment from schools, PHAF believes the CSE pilot will enhance learner wellbeing, protect children, and promote healthier, more resilient school communities across Juba,” Taban added. “This milestone is a testament to what African institutions can achieve when we collaborate with purpose.”

The pilot programme is supported by the Bingwa Plus Initiative through Africa CDC, Youth Hub Africa, GIZ, and the African Union. It aligns with the Strengthening Crisis and Pandemic Response in Africa (SCPRA) framework, aimed at bolstering health systems and improving adolescent wellbeing.

Nadia Alex, a teacher at Munuki East, highlighted that teachers are actively engaged in micro-teaching, role plays, scenario-building, and group discussions, noting that they left the training feeling more confident in facilitating sensitive conversations and guiding learners with empathy.

“Comprehensive Sexuality Education is not about teaching children to be sexually active; it is about equipping them with the knowledge to stay safe, confident, and informed,” Alex said.

Adelina Wani, a teacher based in Gudele East, remarked that teachers can now address sensitive topics without fear.

 “Our children face challenges every day. With Comprehensive Sexuality Education, we finally have the tools to guide them toward safer choices,” Wani stated.

Jabe Judith, the Gender Protection Officer for PHAF, emphasised that the training will significantly impact students’ safety and wellbeing.

“Comprehensive Sexuality Education is not just a curriculum; it is a pathway to dignity, safety, and opportunity for every child in South Sudan,” Judith concluded.