(YEI) – Public schools in Yei River County, Central Equatoria State, are struggling to accommodate a sharp rise in pupil enrolment, following the return of displaced families to the area.
Commissioner Emmanuel Taban confirmed that the number of learners in several schools now exceeds classroom capacity, making it difficult for teachers to manage classes and ensure quality learning. In some schools, the enrolment has surpassed 1,000 pupils, far beyond the facilities’ designed limits.
“The number of pupils in some of the schools has gone beyond the capacity,” said Taban. “We are working to expand the schools so they can accommodate the current numbers.”
The increase in enrolment is being attributed to families returning to the area after years of displacement due to past conflict. Yei River County was one of the regions severely affected by the 2016 violence, during which many schools were destroyed or occupied by armed groups.
Commissioner Taban said county authorities are now prioritising the construction of additional classrooms to meet the demand. He also announced plans to recruit and train unqualified volunteer teachers who are already assisting in some schools.
“The current plan is to construct more classrooms and enrol untrained teachers for training so that they meet the standard,” Taban added.
The commissioner acknowledged the challenges ahead but expressed hope that with support from development partners and the state government, learning conditions could gradually improve.
No specific budget was mentioned for the classroom expansion.
Efforts are also underway to restore infrastructure damaged during the conflict. Many schools in Yei still lack adequate desks, teaching materials and latrines. Despite these conditions, the renewed interest in education by returning families is seen as a positive sign of recovery and stability.
Education officials have called on both humanitarian agencies and the national government to support the education sector in Yei and similar counties facing post conflict pressures.