Governor Adil Takes Loka Secondary School Revival Appeal to Vice President

(LAINYA COUNTY) – Central Equatoria State Governor Emmanuel Adil Anthony has revealed that he has presented the concerns of Lainya residents over the rehabilitation and reopening of the historic Loka Secondary School to the national government for action.

Speaking in Lainya County, Governor Adil said discussions are already underway at the national level to renovate the once-renowned institution, which has remained closed since the 2016 conflict.

“I raised the issue of Loka Secondary School with the national government because it is a national school. During my recent meeting with the Vice President, he informed me that they are working with the Minister of General Education to renovate this historic institution. The aim is to restore its former status and attract students from across the country, ensuring that the name of Loka and Lainya is not forgotten,” Governor Adil said.

Loka Secondary School, established in the early 1950s, is one of South Sudan’s most historic educational institutions. The school earned a reputation for academic excellence and produced several distinguished leaders, including the late Dr. John Garang de Mabior and many other prominent South Sudanese figures.

However, years of conflict forced the closure of the national boarding school, leaving the once-thriving campus abandoned and reportedly overgrown, with parts of the facility now inhabited by wild animals.

Community leaders and residents of Lainya County have repeatedly appealed to authorities to prioritise the rehabilitation and reopening of the school, arguing that its revival would restore educational opportunities for young people and help preserve an important national heritage.

While welcoming the government’s commitment, local observers emphasised that lasting peace and stability in Lainya County and across Central Equatoria State remain essential for the successful return of students, teachers, and communities to the area.

The proposed renovation of Loka Secondary School has raised hopes among residents that the institution will once again become a centre of academic excellence and a symbol of educational progress in South Sudan.