(YEI RIVER COUNTY) – Teachers in Yei River County are calling for improved salaries, better working conditions, and enhanced professional training as the world commemorates the World Teachers’ Day today Monday the 5th of October 2026.
The educators say delayed salaries, financial hardship and limited opportunities for professional development are placing increasing pressure on teachers, forcing some to leave the profession in search of better livelihoods.
Speaking on the occasion, a teacher at Jigomony Primary School, Daniel Ariak Michael, described teaching as more than a profession, calling it a duty to shape the country’s future generation.
“Being a teacher is a call from God. I chose this profession because I wanted to give knowledge to the upcoming generation, so that they also become responsible citizens of the country.”
Meanwhile, Latio Emmanuel Joel, the Administration and Finance Officer at Yei Day Senior School, said government-employed teachers at the school have gone eight months without receiving salaries, making it difficult for them to provide for their families.
According to Joel, about ten teachers have already left the profession in search of better opportunities.
“What we are getting from the school does not help us at all. But because of the patience and the heart that we have for our country, we decide to remain behind and teach the younger generation.”
Teachers also appealed for regular training and capacity-building programmes, saying continuous professional development is crucial to improving the quality of education.
“Quality comes with training and other related benefits.”
They urged the government and education stakeholders to prioritise teachers’ welfare by ensuring timely salary payments and creating more opportunities for professional growth.
Despite the challenges, Joel said many teachers remain committed to educating children because they believe education is key to building a better future for South Sudan.
The Deputy Director for Education in Yei River County also encouraged teachers not to abandon the profession despite the hardships they face.
“Without education, this country will be doomed. The future of this country will be doomed. So let’s continue with the work that we have chosen.”
He also expressed appreciation to parents for their continued support to schools through small contributions that help cover basic operational costs.
The education official noted that authorities were unable to organise a major World Teachers’ Day celebration this year due to existing challenges but expressed optimism that teachers would prepare early and celebrate together next year.
“If we leave the children and lay down our tools, we will suffer in the future, because a country without education is like a dark day.”
As World Teachers’ Day is marked across the globe, teachers in Yei are calling on the government and partners to take teachers’ welfare seriously, strengthen support systems, and invest in professional development.
They say supporting teachers is essential to improving the quality of education and securing a brighter future for children in Yei River County and South Sudan as a whole.
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