St. Daniel Comboni College is the third Secondary School in the history of Nzara County, after Nzara Secondary School and Brilliant Secondary School
By Emmanuel Mandella
The Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio (CDTY) has handed over a newly built secondary school to the community in Nzara County. The school, St. Daniel Comboni College, established by the Comboni Missionary Sisters, showcases the church’s commitment to educational development.
Speaking during the inauguration, Bishop Barani Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala, who spearheaded the initiative, emphasized the critical role the school is set to play, in shaping future leaders.
“This school is not just a building. It is a foundation for our children’s future. Parents and stakeholders must take proper care of it. We are not merely building structures, we are building leaders for tomorrow,” Bishop Hiiboro stated passionately.
The bishop also addressed the students, warning against cheating in examinations.
“I caution every student under Catholic institutions to refrain from cheating in examinations. If found cheating, you will be dismissed. Allowing such behavior opens doors to corruption in public offices, something the Catholic fraternity cannot support,” he added.
Additionally, Bishop Hiiboro stated the need for the need for introduction of local languages, cultural values, and humanity in schools from kindergarten. “Our schools must instill prayer, good culture, and vernacular teaching, in the academic curricula,” he urged.
St. Daniel Comboni College is the third Secondary School in the history of Nzara County, after Nzara Secondary School and Brilliant Secondary School. The idea to found the school was mooted by the Comboni Missionary Sisters, along with Bishop Hiiboro and other stakeholders, in response to the educational challenges faced by students in Nzara County, particularly the long distance to schools in Yambio.
Despite facing setbacks, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the school resumed operations in 2021 with 33 learners, steadily growing each year.
Today, the college boasts four classes from Senior 1 to Senior 4, with 145 students and 10 teachers. “This school stands as a testimony to the resilience of this community. We are grateful to the Comboni Sisters, Bishop Hiiboro, and the parents who have all played a role in making this dream a reality” said the school’s principal, Mr. Gibambuyo Luciano Singi-Singi.
“This school is a blessing, not just for Nzara, but for the entire country. It will shape future generations and contribute to the betterment of South Sudan and the world,” he added.
However, the Chairperson of the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), Mr. Clement Daniel Zambia, expressed gratitude, praising the Comboni Sisters for their tireless work.
“I am a living example of their dedication. I completed my primary education here, and today, I am grateful that my nephew and siblings will also benefit from this institution” he shared.
Mr. Zambia urged parents to remain committed to supporting the school and ensuring it thrives. “We have to provide for our kids and follow the rules and regulations that will keep this institution strong for future generations,” he said.
St. Daniel Comboni College, founded to “save Africa with Africa,” as per the vision of St. Daniel Comboni, aims to help young people discover their potential and become productive members of society. Its mission to nurture students spiritually, morally, and intellectually is already evident in its short history.
With the community’s strong support and the steadfast leadership of the Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio, the future looks bright for Nzara County and its young leaders. As Bishop Hiiboro concluded his address, “Together, we are building a better future.”
So far CDTY is having over 30 institutions across Western Equatoria State, with all aiming at shaping future generations.
“We have to provide for our kids and follow the rules and regulations that will keep this institution strong for future generations,” said Clement Daniel Zambia, the Chairperson of the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA).