By Sabri Dibaco
Education Minister Patrick Thomas Riruyo has urged Primary Eight and Senior Four candidates to avoid examination malpractice ahead of the 2026 national examinations.
He appealed on Saturday while addressing candidates at Our Lady of Assumption Schools in Riimenze during a dedication prayer organised by the school administration.
The minister encouraged candidates to work hard, maintain discipline and seek God’s guidance as they prepare for their examinations.
He warned against cheating, emphasising that academic success requires honesty, commitment and personal effort.
“As a ministry, we are committed to working hard to ensure that we have quality education in Western Equatoria State,” Patrick said.
He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to improving education standards despite challenges facing the sector.
The minister also commended the Catholic Diocese of Tambura-Yambio (CDTY) for its contribution to education delivery across the state.
He described the Church as an important education partner, particularly given the government’s limited resources.
“As we all know, the government has got a lot of challenges, and actually, without the Church, it would be very difficult for us,” he said.
Meanwhile, Brother Kiwanuka Achilles, headmaster of Our Lady of Assumption Schools, called on parents to enrol more children at the institution.
He said the school focuses on developing learners academically, morally and practically.
“Parents, bring your children here. There is holistic transformation, not only in academics. We transform the mind, we transform the hearts, and we also transform the hands,” Kiwanuka said.
He added that the institution has qualified technical staff committed to teaching, mentoring and preparing learners for responsible roles in society.
The dedication prayer attracted the King of the Azande Kingdom, clergy members, representatives of United Nations agencies, non-governmental organisations, parents and students.
The gathering also brought together other community members and well-wishers.
The minister’s warning comes amid continued national efforts to address examination malpractice in South Sudan.
National Minister of General Education and Instruction Kuyok Abol Kuyok has also repeatedly urged candidates, teachers and school administrators to uphold examination integrity.
As candidates prepare for the 2026 examinations, education authorities continue to emphasise discipline, adequate preparation and honesty.
These principles remain essential to maintaining the credibility of national examination results.