By Alan Clement
Koch County Commissioner, David Gatmai Wal has pledged full support for a Ministry-led initiative to train underqualified primary school teachers across the county.
Speaking after a meeting with a delegation from the Ministry of General Education and Instruction, Commissioner Gatmai emphasized that strengthening the skills of teachers is not only a government priority but also a community responsibility.
He described the Ministry’s initiative as a “vital step toward educational justice and community development” and central to the county’s development and a cornerstone of improving education for children
“This assessment shows solidarity and commitment to Koch. By training our teachers, we are securing the future of our children and proving that education is a pillar of development in our county,” the Commissioner said in a statement from his press unit.
The visiting team was led by Stephen Gatluak Ruondial, a senior inspector at the Ministry, accompanied by Matthew Puot, the Director General of the Accelerated Learning Program (ALP) in Unity State, newly appointed RRC Director Molana Chuol, and Education Director Ruach Walang Lohe.
Senior Inspector Stephen Gatluak acknowledged that most primary school teachers in Koch County are either teaching assistants or have not completed formal education programs.
“Many lack the foundational training required to deliver quality education. In the coming months, the Ministry will roll out targeted training to ensure every teacher meets acceptable standards,” he said in a statement.
Commissioner Gatmai welcomed the pledge, stressing that the effort aligns with his administration’s development agenda. He underscored that next year must mark a turning point, with schools across Koch staffed by skilled and educated teachers.
“We must work hard to bring trained teachers to every corner of Koch. This initiative will accelerate development and give our children a better chance at success,” he added.
The presence of ALP Director Matthew Puot and RRC Director Molana Chuol suggests a multi-sectoral approach to education reform. Puot hinted at possible integration of Koch into Unity State’s ALP framework, which supports non-traditional learners and returnees. Chuol’s attendance also raised speculation about linking education to reintegration and peacebuilding efforts.
Education Director Ruach Walang Lohe emphasized the urgency of the intervention: “We cannot wait for perfect conditions. We must begin where we are, with the teachers we have and build their capacity” he stressed.
The delegation’s assessment is expected to pave the way for training programs, setting new standards for teacher professionalism in Koch County and boosting education outcomes across Unity State.