By Sabri Dibaco
A student leader representing South Sudanese scholars in Morocco has met with the Minister of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), calling for increased financial support for students studying under government scholarship programs.
During the meeting, student representative Malith Malith, highlighted the growing financial challenges faced by South Sudanese students in Morocco.
These include rising living costs, tuition-related expenses, and delays in the disbursement of stipends.
“I am appealing to the government for additional financial assistance to help meet other needs that are not included in the scholarship,” Malith said.
He emphasized that many students are struggling to meet basic needs, a situation that is negatively affecting both their academic performance and overall well-being.
In response, the Minister of ICT, Ateny Wek Ateny, acknowledged the concerns and assured the student leader that the matter would be communicated to the relevant authorities.
“I will convey your concerns to my colleague, the Minister of Higher Education, who is the custodian of the Moroccan–South Sudan scholarship program,” Ateny stated.
He further pledged to raise the issue with the Minister of Education for consideration and possible intervention.
The Minister underscored the importance of supporting students studying abroad, describing them as vital contributors to South Sudan’s future development. He also reiterated the government’s commitment to improving the welfare of students pursuing higher education overseas.
The meeting is viewed as a positive step toward addressing the ongoing challenges faced by scholarship beneficiaries. Students remain hopeful that the government will act swiftly to provide the necessary financial support.
South Sudanese students in Morocco have repeatedly called for timely and adequate funding, urging authorities to prioritize education as a key pillar for national growth and capacity building.