AWEIL – Construction of new classrooms has officially begun at Majok-Yiith Primary School in Majok-Yiith-Thiou Town Council, a border area near Sudan from Aweil East County in Northern Bahr El Ghazal State, as local authorities race to improve learning conditions before the onset of the rainy season.
The initiative kicked off on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, with the measurement of classroom structures, marking the first step toward erecting eight grass-thatched classrooms.
The exercise was witnessed by Town Mayor Moses Garang Malong, who was accompanied by Deputy Mayor James Thou Apath, the chairperson of the local construction committee overseeing the project.
Addressing chiefs and community workers at the school, Apath emphasised the urgency of completing the classrooms in time to shield pupils from the rains. He called for discipline and commitment among local leaders, warning against delays in participation.
“The commitment has to be shown by coming early. If you don’t show up on time, then don’t expect your court offices to remain open,” Apath cautioned, in a bid to enforce accountability among chiefs involved in the project.
He acknowledged the economic hardships facing both the government and households, but insisted that these challenges should not hinder progress on community priorities. Apath urged teachers and parents to actively contribute materials such as poles and timber to support the construction effort.
“We know the difficulties people are facing, but this should not stop us from achieving what we can. Everyone must join hands—especially parents—to support this initiative as the rains approach,” he said.
Mayor Malong, speaking to a large group of pupils during his visit, highlighted the importance of education and community cooperation. He encouraged students to remain focused on their studies despite the challenges they face.
“You are growing up in an area with limited services, but among you are future leaders. Work hard to achieve your dreams—whether becoming a mayor, a nurse, or any other profession,” Malong told the learners, with a special message urging girls to pursue education and professional careers.
He also called on chiefs to expedite the construction process, stressing the need to provide shelter for learners as soon as possible.
Majok-Yiith Primary School serves children from surrounding villages, many of whom walk long distances to attend classes. The school currently lacks basic infrastructure, including classrooms, chalkboards, and benches, forcing pupils to learn under trees.
One of the teachers, Paulino Garang, described the situation as extremely difficult.
“These pupils come from different villages around the municipality. We appreciate any support because we lack basic materials like chalkboards and other scholastic supplies,” he said.
The local construction committee, led by the deputy mayor, has been tasked with completing the classrooms before the end of next month. Mayor Malong pledged to officially hand over the completed structures, along with small incentives, once the work is finalised.
