GESS Program Empowers One Million Girls in South Sudan, Transforming Education and Breaking Barriers
In a country where war and a lack of government funding have left over 2.8 million children out of school, the Girls Education South Sudan (GESS) program has become a beacon of hope. With support from key donors such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Sweden, USAID, and the European Union, the program has empowered one million vulnerable girls, providing them with the opportunity to receive an education and avoid early marriages.
Celebrating this remarkable achievement, the donors recently visited Juba One Girls Secondary School to meet some of the beneficiaries of the GESS program. Kobi Bentley, the Development Director at the British Embassy in South Sudan, expressed her pride in supporting girls’ education through GESS and emphasized the impact of cash stipends on keeping girls in school. These cash transfers enable girls to purchase essential items like books, sanitary products, and transportation, ensuring they have the necessary resources to continue their education.
Richard K. Adzei, the Director of Education and Youth at USAID, called upon the South Sudanese government to contribute more funding to the education sector, while acknowledging the significant accomplishments achieved through the GESS program. He emphasized that both the government and donors must work together to secure a brighter future for the young girls of South Sudan.
The impact of the GESS program was evident as school girls shared their aspirations of becoming nurses, lawyers, pilots, and doctors. Esther Keji Luka, a senior three student at Juba Girls Secondary School, shared her personal journey and how the GESS funds have supported her since primary school. As an orphan, Esther relied on the money to pay for school fees and essential items like sanitary pads. Alfred Loku, the deputy headteacher at the school, highlighted the program’s success in breaking cultural barriers that traditionally discouraged the education of girls.
Through GESS, cash transfers are directly provided to girls enrolled in and regularly attending school. Primary 5 to 8 and Secondary 1 to 4 students are eligible for these transfers, which are given once a year. Last year, the girls received SSP 11,000, and they eagerly anticipate this year’s transfer.
The GESS program has undoubtedly made a significant impact on the lives of one million girls in South Sudan, enabling them to access education, pursue their dreams, and break free from the cycle of poverty. However, the continued success of the program relies on the government’s increased investment in the education sector, coupled with ongoing support from donors. By working hand in hand, they can create a brighter future for the next generation of South Sudanese girls.
