The latest renovation of the Chinese Friendship Secondary School, an institution built in 2011 with aid from the Chinese government, was funded by China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC)

By Aguok Chok

The Chinese Friendship Secondary School in Juba held a grand ceremony to mark the handover of a renovation project at the institution, funded by the China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC), Africa Ltd., reflecting the deep relationship between South Sudan and China.

Headteacher Nelson Wani expressed deep gratitude, stating, “This is a remarkable moment whereby it will demonstrate the friendship between the government of South Sudan and the Republic of China.” He acknowledged China’s long-standing support, recalling that the school was originally built in 2011 with aid from the Chinese government. “From that moment up to 2025, this school has graduated many, many students,” he said.

At the event, held at the school on Tuesday, government officials, school administrators, and representatives from China gathered to celebrate the handover ceremony of a major renovation project, highlighting China’s dedication to education and infrastructure development in South Sudan.

Speaking at the event, Chinese Ambassador to South Sudan, H.E. Ma Qiang, emphasized on the vital role of education in national development. “Education is the foundation of national development in the long run,” he stated, underscoring China’s continued support for South Sudan’s education sector.

The Ambassador praised the contributions of China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) Africa Company for its role in enhancing education in South Sudan. “Last year, CNPC Africa Company renewed its school by renovating and upgrading the facilities and equipment, vividly interpreting the noble spirit of boundless love and eternal virtue with practical actions,” he noted.

CNPC, Africa Ltd. President Lu Jiangbo, speaking on behalf of the company, emphasized their commitment to social responsibility. “We have renovated classrooms, upgraded the school fence, and repainted corridors and external walls,” he said.

The company also donated over 200 tailor-made desks and chairs, stationery, and T-shirts for students and teachers. “Our idea is to improve the physical infrastructure of the school and create a better learning environment,” he added.

Beyond education, CNPC has played a crucial role in South Sudan’s economic and social development. “Since setting foot in South Sudan in 2011, CNPC has been actively involved in social welfare undertakings,” Lu Jiangbo stated. The company has invested over $6 million in projects spanning education, healthcare, infrastructure, and humanitarian aid. “These milestones stand as a true testament to CNPC’s principle of mutual benefit for common development,” he noted.

Advisor for secondary education at the Ministry of General Education, Emmanuel Natale, echoed these sentiments. “We would like to ensure and state that your package of aid that you have granted to us is a very valuable one,” he said. He acknowledged the school’s contribution to producing skilled graduates who now study in universities both locally and internationally.

State Minister of General Education, Central Equatoria State, Cirisio Zakaria Lado, delivered an impassioned speech, reinforcing the importance of education in nation-building. “Education is the key. Education is light. Education is the way. Education is the building of the nation,” he declared. He emphasized that China’s contributions extend far beyond the school. “The Republic of China gave a lot of services in South Sudan, especially in education, health, roads, buildings, agriculture—a lot of things,” he stated.

Reflecting on the deep-rooted friendship between South Sudan and China, Lado added, “We will stand by the Chinese government and the People’s Republic of China with all that they are going to help South Sudan, especially in Central Equatoria.” He assured that the Council of Ministers in Central Equatoria State would formally recognize China’s contribution and advocate for continued collaboration.

Addressing students and teachers, Lado urged them to value the gift of education. “If you don’t thank an individual, you don’t thank God,” he said. “Education, you have to handle it carefully, strongly. Don’t throw it down.”

The event concluded with a shared commitment to strengthening cooperation. “We always cherish the friendship between the two countries’ peoples,” said Lu Jiangbo. Quoting an African proverb, he added, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”

China’s ongoing contributions to South Sudan’s development extend beyond education. Through CNPC and other partnerships, China has invested significantly in infrastructure, energy, healthcare, and humanitarian aid. These initiatives continue to transform lives and solidify diplomatic ties between the two nations.

As the ceremony ended, the resounding message was clear: South Sudan and China’s friendship remains steadfast, built on mutual support, trust, and a shared vision for a brighter future.