(TONJ SOUTH COUNTY, WARRAP STATE) – The Education Director for Tonj South County, Kharbino Bith Chol, has announced the launch of a climate resilience programme in all schools, requiring each institution to plant 136 trees to help reduce the effects of extreme heat waves on pupils.
The directive was issued during a meeting with head teachers earlier today, where Mr Bith explained that the initiative is designed to protect children, particularly those under the age of 10, from heat-related illnesses during the intense February to May dry season. He noted that planting trees on school grounds will provide shade, reduce classroom temperatures, and improve the learning environment.
The project has been developed in partnership with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) and the Ministries of Education at national and state levels. It is part of a wider effort to integrate environmental protection into the education system in South Sudan, where rising temperatures are placing new pressures on schools and communities.
Speaking at the briefing, Mr Bith said: “Implementing this tree-planting policy will save lives and shield learners from the impacts of climate change. This is about the health and future of our children.”
The meeting also addressed administrative preparations for the 2025 Primary Eight examinations. Candidate forms were distributed to the head teachers, with submissions scheduled to begin next week. The forms, which are essential for pupils completing primary school, will be processed according to directives from State Minister of Education Solomon Bol Mabior.
Head teachers at the meeting pledged to begin both the tree-planting and the form submission process without delay. They agreed to mobilise pupils, teachers, and communities to ensure that the planting targets are met and that the required documentation for final-year pupils is submitted on time.
The Education Director concluded by urging swift compliance, stating that the success of the initiative depends on the cooperation of all schools. He emphasised that while academic preparation is essential, building climate resilience is now equally critical for the long-term safety and success of learners in Tonj South and across South Sudan.
Tree Planting Requirement Per School
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Trees per school | 136 |
| Estimated cost per tree (SSP/USD) | 2,300 SSP / $0.50 |
| Total cost per school (SSP/USD) | 312,800 SSP / $68.00 |
