Author: Lasuba Memo | Published: 4 hours ago
GPAA Chief Administrator talks to teachers under a tree about the need to improve learning in the state|Courtesy
The Chief Administrator of Greater Pibor, Gola Boyoi, has urged teachers to focus on delivering quality education and instilling genuine knowledge in students, rather than encouraging a pursuit of certificates without substance.
Speaking to a group of teachers under a tree at the local school he once attended, Boyoi reflected on his own educational journey and emphasized the need for deeper learning, self-improvement, and patriotism.
“This is the same school we are sitting in today. I did my primary education here. But it’s not about the school — it’s about you. Because what the teacher gives is only 40 to 60 percent. The rest is on you,” Boyoi said.
He criticized the trend of individuals obtaining qualifications abroad without the skills to match them, saying:
“We have certificates from Uganda, master’s degrees from Buzunga, but without even a primary certificate. You go for one or two years and return with papers, but no knowledge. You’re cheating yourself, not us.”
The Chief Administrator also expressed concern over what he described as poor writing skills among educated South Sudanese on social media platforms.
“Sometimes I feel bad when I read our people’s posts in WhatsApp groups. People pretend to have certificates, yet they can’t write a complete sentence correctly. It’s very annoying,” he remarked.
Boyoi emphasized that education should be about understanding, not just credentials:
“There is a difference between knowledge and drawing. Writing is just a drawing — real education is about what you know.”
He pledged that education would remain a top priority in his second administration, committing to closer collaboration with teachers to address systemic challenges.
“We need to support the education sector. That’s why I said I must come down and sit with you — to see the challenges together and find solutions.”
The Chief Administrator also called on teachers to foster patriotism and a love for community among students, comparing their work to that of soldiers.
“A soldier earns 30,000 pounds but risks his life to protect the country. Why? Because of love for his people. Teachers, too, must serve with that same spirit.”
He concluded by raising concern over the number of children not enrolled in school, calling it a significant setback to the community’s future.
“One of the greatest challenges is that many students are not in school — even when education is free. We must do better.”
