Historic Turnout Marks Latest CPE Exams
More than 84,000 South Sudanese pupils began the Certificate of Primary Education examinations on Monday, an unprecedented turnout that national leaders hail as proof of widening classroom doors.
Launching the tests at Juba One Boys Primary School, Vice-President Josephine Lagu Yanga stated, “A total of 84,815 candidates from 1,953 schools are writing in 551 centres nationwide.”
South Sudan Education Drive
Officials argue the surge reflects stronger parental confidence, growing teacher ranks and community resolve to keep children in class despite economic headwinds.
Observers also link the rise to sustained school-building since 2019 and to recent campaigns touting the value of literacy for nation-building.
Nationwide Examination Logistics
Five papers—English, science, religious education, social studies and mathematics—will be administered from Monday to Friday, beginning with English in all centres.
Education officials say uniform start times and sealed question booklets aim to preserve fairness and bolster public trust in the young assessment system.
Government Commitment to Quality
Vice-President Lagu reaffirmed that Juba is prioritising teacher training, school infrastructure and credible exams through the Service Delivery Cluster and the Ministry of General Education and Instruction.
She maintained the initiatives will translate into higher learning outcomes, aligning with the government’s broader development blueprint.
Community Role in Access
Local chiefs and faith leaders have reportedly urged families to keep girls in school, a stance observers say helps explain the growing gender balance among candidates.
Parents interviewed outside examination halls expressed hope that a successful CPE will unlock secondary scholarships and, ultimately, stable careers for their children.