As the world’s youngest nation, South Sudan has faced a relentless series of challenges since its independence in 2011. The country has endured prolonged drought, a devastating six-year civil war that began just two years after its founding, and the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. For its children, these hardships have created immense barriers to a stable life and education, with hunger being one of the most significant obstacles.

A Lifeline of Food

In South Sudan, providing food is often a prerequisite for running a school. In 2022, St. Bakhita Girls' School was on the verge of closing due to a severe lack of food. In response, the Tzu Chi Foundation began providing food aid to ensure the students could continue their education. The following year, the program was extended to include St. Comboni Boys' School.

The logistical difficulties of this undertaking are immense. To procure enough food, school staff must make a full-day journey to neighboring Kenya. The route consists of rough dirt and stone roads that can become impassable after a sudden downpour, cutting off access. Despite these hurdles, the commitment to feeding the students has never wavered.

A Foundation for Learning

The impact of a consistent food supply has been transformative. A nun from one of the schools shared, "When children no longer worry about being hungry, they can fully concentrate on their studies." This simple change has removed a heavy burden from the students' shoulders, allowing them to focus on their lessons and embrace the opportunity to learn.

The results of this focused effort became clear in late April 2025, when the nun sent the students' latest report cards. The documents revealed an average pass rate of 90%, a remarkable achievement in such a challenging environment. Accompanying the grades were handwritten thank-you letters from the students, expressing their gratitude and giving a powerful boost of encouragement to everyone involved.

The success of the students at St. Bakhita and St. Comboni schools is a testament to their resilience and determination. It also shows how addressing a fundamental need like hunger can unlock human potential, offering a glimmer of hope and a path toward a brighter future for the children of South Sudan.

Written by Yu-Chen Pan (潘俞臻)

Source: 南蘇丹二校糧援傳佳音 學生成績及格率達九成