[OPINION] – Late Results, Lasting Impact on Education

By Gismala Isaac

There is a saying: “Better late than never.” The release of South Sudan’s Senior Four results is a clear example of this.

Like many countries, South Sudan sets education standards with Senior Four as the final year of high school and the gateway to university or college. While every academic year presents challenges, this year’s has been particularly difficult, especially due to the long delay in releasing the results.

This week, however, has brought joy not only to students and parents anxiously awaiting the outcome, but also to all who value education as a tool for progress and development. I wish to extend heartfelt congratulations to the Ministry of General Education and Instruction for this important achievement.

The release of results has not only given students hope to continue their education but has also helped to restore public trust in an education system that many had begun to doubt.

It is encouraging to see so many students perform exceptionally well, with results exceeding expectations despite the difficulties surrounding the exams. This success shows that our young people are not merely relying on shortcuts, as some feared, but are proving their commitment through hard work and dedication.

Congratulations to all who passed and now look forward to admission into universities or colleges.

At the same time, the Ministry has announced that about 12,000 students failed. In most cases, students who do not succeed are advised to resit their exams. Factors such as domestic responsibilities, conflict, lack of concentration, limited support, or illness often contribute to poor performance.

With the results being released so late in the year, many are now asking important questions: Will there be another opportunity for those who failed? What measures has the Ministry put in place to ensure these students do not lose hope?

This is why I appeal to the government to consider allowing late registration for students who wish to resit. Their failure may not be entirely of their own making. Had results been released earlier, many would have already registered.

Although time is limited, I believe that serious students could still prepare within the remaining months and succeed. The Ministry could provide an alternative paper and extend the academic calendar to December to accommodate them.

I would also recommend that the Ministry of Education:

+ Provide support systems, such as counselling and mentorship, to help students who failed overcome challenges.

+ Offer additional resources, including textbooks and online materials, for those resitting exams.

+ Consider adjusting the exam calendar to give resitting students a fair opportunity to prepare properly.

The Ministry has an opportunity to demonstrate its commitment to ensuring that every student, regardless of past performance, is given the chance to succeed.

Gismala Isaac is a commentator on education, youth and governance issues.

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