By Emmanuel Mandella

In a major government shake-up, President Salva Kiir on Monday, March 10, dismissed several high-ranking officials, including Minister of General Education and Instruction Awut Deng Acuil, Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs Ruben Madol, Minister of Trade and Industry Joseph Mum Majak, and Deputy Governor of Jonglei Atong Kuol Manyang.

According to the presidential degree that was read on South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC), Kiir appointed Kuyok Abol Kuyok as the new Minister of General Education, Wek Mamer as Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, and Atong Kuol as Minister of Trade and Industry. The changes come as the government seeks to realign its leadership amid ongoing national challenges.

The legacy of Awut Deng Acuil in Education Sector during her tenure, was characterized by significant contributions as well as challenges.

In October 2023, she pledged to construct ten additional schools in Unity State to support returning citizens displaced by the Sudan conflict.

 “I assure you, the Ministry of General Education and Instruction will construct 10 additional schools to accommodate returnees who will go back to learning,” she stated at the time.

In July 2022, her ministry oversaw the approval of a 100% salary increase for teachers, addressing long-standing concerns over educators’ welfare, even though the teachers, just like other civil servants, went for months without their salaries.

“The adjustment of the salary structure of teachers was approved by the council to 100%. Our focus will be on improving teachers’ services and investing in training,” she said.

Additionally, in February 2023, the ministry received 330,000 printed textbooks from the Chinese government for primary school learners, enhancing access to educational materials and improving learning outcomes.

Ruben Madol tenure as Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs was marked by efforts to strengthen justice and uphold constitutional principles in South Sudan.

Meanwhile, President Kiir also made changes in Jonglei State, where he dismissed the Deputy Governor, Atong Kuol Manyang, and appointed her the new Minister of Trade and Industry, replacing Joseph Mum Majak.

The latest reshuffle underscores President Kiir’s intent to recalibrate his administration, potentially signaling shifts in policy direction. The newly appointed ministers face the challenge of building upon their predecessors’ work to drive development and maintain stability in the country.