CES Orders Private Schools to Charge Fees in South Sudanese Pounds, Threatens Closure

By Awan Achiek

The Central Equatoria State Ministry of General Education and Instruction has mandated that all private schools in the state begin charging tuition and related fees in South Sudanese pounds, effective from the 2027 academic year.

Schools that do not comply with this directive risk having their operating licenses suspended or revoked, or may face closure.

This decision comes in response to concerns about the high fees being charged in US dollars, poor management practices, inadequate learning environments, and insufficient lesson coverage.

At a press conference on Tuesday, State Caretaker Education Minister Lupai Satimon Andrew emphasized that schools failing to adhere to the order could face serious consequences, including license revocation or closure.

“All schools operating in Central Equatoria State (CES) are hereby directed to charge school fees and related costs in South Sudanese pounds, rather than in foreign currency, including US dollars, starting in the 2027 academic year,” Lupai stated.

He also required private schools to meet minimum operational standards, which include providing adequate facilities and maintaining a clean, conducive learning environment.

“All private school facilities must adhere to the minimum operational standards outlined in the Ministry of General Education and Instruction’s general education policy. This includes ensuring that school grounds in urban areas measure 400 x 400 meters and provide a suitable learning environment for all activities,” he explained.

“Consequently, any school that cannot meet these standards will not be permitted to operate in Central Equatoria State after 2027.”

The minister revealed that recent inspections revealed some schools open late and close as early as noon, leading to reduced teaching time and insufficient curriculum coverage.

Lupai further instructed all schools to adhere to official operating hours, with classes starting at 8:00 a.m. and ending at 4:00 p.m.

“It has been noted that many schools operate below acceptable standards. The general timetable does not align with the reality of schools opening late and closing early at noon,” he stated.

“This order is directed to all head teachers, teachers, inspectors, and supervisors to ensure that the teacher workload of eight periods per day is met, with documentation of lesson plans and schemes of work. The school calendar must be strictly followed, with schools opening precisely at 8:00 a.m. and closing at 4:00 p.m.”

He urged parents and guardians to enroll their children in nearby schools to reduce travel distances and improve punctuality and attendance.

“It has been observed that many children travel long distances to attend school, often bypassing closer options. To save time for studies and enhance class attendance, all parents and guardians are encouraged to enroll their children in nearby schools or relocate to their preferred institutions.”

Additionally, he mandated that all schools establish parent-teacher associations (PTAs) and school management committees to enhance transparency, accountability, and effective administration.

“All schools are directed to form PTAs and school management committees for better management, transparency, and accountability. Any school that fails to comply with this directive will face appropriate penalties.”