(JUBA) – South Sudan has launched a $17 million programme to strengthen climate resilience in the education sector. Known as the Building the Climate Resilience of Children and Communities through the Education Sector (BRACE) project, it will directly support over 200,000 children, with half of them girls. In local currency, the programme is valued at around 120.7 billion SSP.
The pilot project is led by Save the Children with funding from the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and the Global Partnership for Education (GPE). Its aim is to reform education policies, rebuild school infrastructure, and train children to continue learning during recurring climate disasters.
South Sudan is among the most climate vulnerable countries in the world. Extreme weather events frequently damage school buildings, displace thousands of children, and interrupt education. Currently, over 1 million people in six states are affected by flooding, with nearly 355,000 displaced, especially in Jonglei and Unity states. Consecutive heatwaves have forced widespread school closures over the past two years.
Chris Nyamandi, Save the Children Country Director, said, “Floods, droughts, and extreme heat leave communities with little time to recover, displacing families and disrupting vital services, including education. Through BRACE, we are helping children learn, adapt, and thrive in a changing climate.”
The BRACE programme will adapt school infrastructure to withstand climate challenges. Key improvements include better ventilation to manage heat, solar panels for electricity, and enhanced water harvesting and sanitation systems.
Vice President for Service Cluster, H.E. Josephine Lagu, said, “The BRACE project is a promise to South Sudanese children. Displaced communities, especially girls, need protection. This initiative ensures they can continue learning safely.”
National Minister of General Education and Instruction, Hon. Dr. Kuyok Abol Kuyok, described the funding as “an investment in stability and opportunity, breaking the cycle of climate-induced vulnerability.”
Hon. Agot Alier, Deputy Speaker of the Child Council, emphasised youth empowerment: “Resilience means bouncing back. Every child must have a reason to rise. BRACE will strengthen not only our schools but also confidence in our children.”
International partners stressed that national leadership and domestic investment are crucial for success. UNESCO will support BRACE with policy, planning, and curriculum reforms to prepare learners for climate challenges.
BRACE Programme Key Features
| Component | Purpose | Measures |
|---|---|---|
| School Infrastructure | Protect learning from climate shocks | Ventilation, water harvesting, sanitation |
| Energy | Ensure consistent electricity | Solar panel installations |
| Policy and Curriculum | Adapt education to climate risks | Climate-aware curricula, teacher training |
| Youth Empowerment | Build resilience and confidence | Training programmes, leadership activities |
| Targeted Support | Prioritise vulnerable children | 200,000 students, 50% girls |
The BRACE programme aims to ensure South Sudan’s education system not only survives climate shocks but emerges stronger, protecting the right of every child to learn, grow, and thrive.