The suggestion, made by a state minister on Friday, encouraged Muslims to establish schools offering instruction in both Arabic and English to improve access to education and curb youth delinquency.

By Emmanuel Mandella

A proposal by Western Equatoria State Minister for Local Government and Law Enforcement, James Severino, inviting the Muslim community to open private schools in the region has stirred mixed reactions among locals.

The suggestion, made by the state minister during Eid al-Adha celebrations in Yambio on Friday, encouraged Muslims to establish schools offering instruction in both Arabic and English to improve access to education and curb youth delinquency.

“Muslims form a large community in South Sudan. Opening schools is both a business opportunity and a service to our children to keep them away from crime and idleness,” Morris said.

He emphasized that inclusive education should reflect the country’s religious and cultural diversity. However, some locals have brushed off the idea.

Sagako Louis, Yambio-born resident of the United States, warned that introducing Muslim-run schools should be handled in a way that they don’t sneak in politics.

“The introduction of such schools risks shifting the focus into political influence. If they hae to exist, they must separate business and politics. And if possible, investing in other development initiatives,” Sagako argued.

His comments reflect a growing anxiety among some citizens who fear that the move could shift Western Equatoria’s socio-political balance.

In contrast, members of the local Muslim community in Yambio have lauded the state government’s gesture, describing it as both inclusive and long overdue.

“It is a good idea. Our children have been out of school for nearly two years because of language barriers. We are ready to sit with the government to make this happen,” said Ahmed Omer, a Muslim trader.

Mr. Omer highlighted the pressing need to address the rising cost of education, which has left many Muslim families unable to afford formal schooling for their children.

Ali Muhammad Kebir also supported the proposal, backing it up with the point that there has been an influx of displaced families from Sudan to the region, majority of who can benefit from such schools.

“We are planning to open Sudanese-style schools to accommodate those fleeing conflict in Sudan. This will ensure their children continue learning,” he explained.

Another community member, Adam Silman Bashar, said the plan would be transformative.

“This is 100% right. We have no Arabic schools in Yambio, and this will help our community greatly.”

Muslim leader Jamal Yosa echoed the sentiments, praising the state’s gesture for inclusion.

“This initiative is long overdue. The government has given us a green light, and we believe both Sudanese and South Sudanese Muslims will benefit. We are one people,” Yosa stated.

“There’s no difference between Sudanese and South Sudanese. These schools will serve both communities equally,” he added.

Whether the state proceeds with the initiative or retreats under pressure remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: the conversation has just begun, and it cuts to the very heart of South Sudan’s pluralistic nature.