Reinstatement of Bentiu Headteachers
Twenty-four headteachers in Bentiu returned to their posts on Friday after the Unity State Ministry of General Education lifted a two-week suspension.
Director General Stephen Mayiel Gatkoi told Radio Tamazuj that officials acted swiftly once investigations were concluded.
Ministry Investigation Findings
The ministry had cited failure to report for duty during protests demanding the release of First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar as the basis for the disciplinary measure.
Investigators found that a community high committee had ordered school closures in Bentiu’s IDP camp, yet administrators had ignored instructions to keep classrooms open and inform authorities.
“Schools should remain independent of community activities and politics,” Mayiel emphasized, adding that future directives would reinforce this principle.
Teachers’ Reaction and Outlook
Headteacher Gabriel Chuol Kuol Ngop confirmed the ministry’s decision, noting he would collect the official reinstatement letter before outlining plans to resume normal lessons.