By Engr. Maker Mangol Acien Yuol
The government of South Sudan, with allied countries, offers scholarships to South Sudanese to study outside South Sudan every year. However, after finishing their studies, they return to Juba and remain unemployed, resulting in the government gaining nothing in the end.
The mutual understanding between different allied countries and South Sudan to educate South Sudanese students should include an agreement with the students receiving scholarships to return and work with the government for a number of years before going for further studies or working with the private sector.
This would contribute to the development of the country while applying their knowledge and skills, solving the unemployment rate, and paying taxes to the government.
Developing clear objectives and partnerships with foreign countries that offer scholarships to South Sudan could enhance the effectiveness of scholarship programs. Ensuring that students return to South Sudan and apply their acquired knowledge maximizes the impact of educational investments.
The number of students accepted can be distributed to the national ministries according to the fields one chooses to study outside South Sudan, thus making it easy to sign an agreement while introducing some taxes to pay to the government. These taxes shouldn’t be misused; they should contribute to the development of infrastructure.
If the government invests in educating South Sudanese, it could yield long-term benefits by fostering a skilled workforce that can contribute to the nation’s development.
The lack of strategic planning and coordination often leads to missed opportunities. By aligning scholarship offerings with national development goals, the government can create a more sustainable and productive educational framework that supports the country’s growth.
Additionally, implementing a robust tracking and support system for returning graduates could help integrate them into the workforce more effectively. This system could include career counseling, job placement services, and continuous professional development opportunities.
Ultimately, a well-structured scholarship strategy that includes clear pathways for graduates to contribute to national development can transform educational investments into tangible growth and progress for South Sudan.
Email: makermangolacien@gmail.com