Over 70 students graduated from the three-month training, specializing in agriculture, electrical installation, plumbing, and poultry farming.

By Riak Chol

Governor Dr. Riek Gai Kok of Jonglei State has called on South Sudanese youth to invest in vocational education as a pathway to innovation, self-reliance, and national development.

Speaking during the graduation ceremony of the second cohort of students from Hanbit Vocational School, hosted at Dr. John Garang Memorial University in Bor, Dr. Gai praised the program’s role in equipping young people with hands-on skills to transform their communities.

Over 70 students graduated from the three-month training, specializing in agriculture, electrical installation, plumbing, and poultry farming.

“These young people who have gained skills today are not going to remain idle. They are now capable of producing for themselves, their families, and their country,” Governor Gai declared. “That is the true value of an independent nation—empowered citizens.”

Vocational Skills as a Tool for Nation-Building

The governor stressed that practical skills are essential for the country’s progress and urged graduates to put their training into action.

“Our youth must take charge. With these skills, rice farming will thrive here. If I have an electrical problem in my home, one of you should be able to fix it,” he said, drawing applause from the crowd.

Dr. Gai challenged the graduates to emulate the industriousness of East African neighbors who dominate informal technical trades in South Sudan.

Self-Reliance Over Foreign Aid

Governor Gai also addressed the country’s dependence on imports and foreign aid, expressing hope that the new graduates would begin reversing this trend.

“We must stop relying on Uganda and Kenya for eggs and poultry. Soon, I hope it will be you—the very graduates we celebrate today—supplying Juba with homegrown products,” he said.

Korean Support and Local Opportunity

The Hanbit Vocational School program is supported by the Korean peacekeeping contingent, which continues to play a vital role in technical training and community development in Jonglei.

Governor Gai lauded their contribution and urged more young people to take advantage of such opportunities. “This is a golden chance. Let’s make the most of it to build a strong, self-sufficient South Sudan,” he concluded.

As the graduates proudly received their certificates, the mood in Bor was one of optimism—a new generation equipped not just with hope, but with the tools to build a better future.