(YEI RIVER COUNTY) – Over four thousand learners, including girls and children with disabilities, are set to benefit from the 2025 Cash Transfer payments launched by the County Education Department of Yei River County in partnership with the Ministry of General Education and Instruction (MOGEI) and the Girls’ Education South Sudan (GESS) programme.
The official launch took place on Thursday morning at Kinji Primary School, attracting education officials, teachers, local leaders, and development partners. According to the organisers, a total of 4,248 learners enrolled in both primary and secondary schools within Yei River County are eligible for the cash transfers this year.
Representing one of the implementing partners, Stone Foundation, Emmanuel Sebit urged recipients to use the money strictly for school-related expenses. “This money is meant for paying school fees and buying learning materials,” Sebit said, warning teachers against demanding any portion of the funds from students.
Sebit explained that the initiative is designed to reduce school dropouts and promote equal access to education, particularly for girls and vulnerable learners.
Sambala Moses, an education officer, commended the inclusion of boys with disabilities in this year’s scheme, noting that it promotes fairness in education support. “They are among the most vulnerable learners, and this inclusion gives them a sense of hope,” he said.
With the festive season approaching, Education Supervisor Martin Lumori Enok advised beneficiaries to keep their money safe and avoid unnecessary spending. “I encourage the beneficiaries to save and use this support wisely,” he said.
Education Advisor Juan Margaret Lomora reminded students to spend the money responsibly. “This money is for paying school fees, not for luxuries like body creams. We encourage our girls to remain focused on their studies,” she said. Lomora also called on banks and financial partners managing the disbursement to maintain transparency and accountability.
The Deputy County Education Director for Administration and Finance, Simon Ludoru Ruben, noted that the GESS initiative has helped reduce dropout rates in Yei. “We have seen fewer girls leaving school because of this programme,” he said. He, however, appealed to partners to ensure timely disbursement in future.
Providing details on the 2025 allocations, Cooperative Bank official Taban James Justice announced that Senior One to Senior Four students will receive 166,000 South Sudanese Pounds (approximately 23.4 US Dollars) each, while Primary Eight candidates will get 129,000 South Sudanese Pounds (about 18.2 US Dollars).
Towongo Alex, representing the County Commissioner, thanked the partners for their continued commitment to girls’ education. “We appreciate the support from our partners and encourage the beneficiaries to use the funds wisely,” he said.
One of the recipients, student Maneno Grace, expressed relief, saying the money would ease her struggles in paying school fees and buying learning materials.
The Girls’ Education South Sudan (GESS) cash transfer programme is a government-backed initiative aimed at promoting education access for girls by providing direct financial aid. Education officials in Yei believe the programme will continue to empower learners, reduce gender gaps, and strengthen the local education system.
| Category of Learners | Amount (SSP) | Equivalent in USD (at 7,100 SSP/USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Senior 1–4 Students | 166,000 SSP | $23.38 |
| Primary 8 Candidates | 129,000 SSP | $18.17 |