A New Chapter for Chukudum Progressive Secondary School —a better learning environment achieved through GESS capital spend

For years, Chukudum Progressive Secondary School, one of only two secondary schools in Budi County stood as a quiet symbol of resilience. Tucked away in a remote part of South Sudan, the school faced a daily battle against challenges that made learning difficult and often discouraging.

Photo 1: Classroom block without window shutters Before renovation

Classrooms were exposed to the elements, with rainwater pouring in through open windows and soaking floors, books, and students alike. The staffroom lacked even the most basic infrastructure, forcing teachers to carry their lesson plans home for safekeeping. Theft of school materials was common due to the absence of secure storage. And for many girls, the lack of a safe, private washroom meant missing school during their menstrual period—losing valuable learning time and falling behind in their studies.

“It was heartbreaking,” recalls Headteacher Opika Opoka Joseph. “Many girls would stay home during their period. The staffroom had no proper infrastructure, so teachers couldn’t work comfortably. And when it rained, classes were often cancelled because water would flood the rooms. But now, all that is changing.”

In 2024, Girls’ Education South Sudan (GESS) introduced the Capital Spend grants—funds provided to government and community-run secondary schools to support urgent infrastructure improvements and enhance the quality of the learning environment.

Photo 2: Ongoing construction of a toilet and washroom for females using capital spend funds

Chukudum Progressive Secondary School received over 9 million South Sudanese Pounds (approximately £1,700) through the capital spend initiative. With these funds, the school embarked on  transforming the learning environment. Some classrooms were renovated with proper windows and shutters to shield students from rain and wind. Secure storage facilities were installed to protect valuable teaching and learning materials. Most significantly, a new girls’ washroom is under construction—offering privacy, dignity, and safety for female students who had long been underserved.

The impact has been profound—not just in the physical upgrades, but in the renewed spirit of the school community. Teachers now have a functional staffroom equipped with tables and secure storage, allowing them to prepare lessons more effectively and collaborate with ease.

“Previously, we had to carry our lesson plan books home because the staffroom wasn’t safe,” Mr. Opika explains. “We didn’t even have tables to write on. Now, teaching and learning are comfortable. We feel valued.”

The transformation has also sparked a wave of pride and optimism among parents and community members. Mrs. Lokiru, a parent and member of the School Management Committee, speaks with visible joy. “This school is our future,” she says. “Our children can now learn in a safe and comfortable environment. The changes have encouraged more children to come to school, especially girls. We see hope now.”

Photo 3: A classroom block exhibiting newly installed window shutters using capital spend funds

That hope is already bearing fruit. In 2025, the school registered over 200 learners, including 84 girls compared to only about 143 in 2024- a significant increase from previous years. Teachers report that students are more engaged, more confident, and more eager to participate in class. The school is no longer just a place of education; it is becoming a hub of possibility, pride, and progress.

With continued support, schools like Chukudum Progressive Secondary will remain pillars of opportunity in communities where access to education is limited. For many children, especially girls, this means more than just staying in school. It means dreaming bigger and reaching their full potential.

GESS continues to support schools across South Sudan through the capital spend initiative alongside other elements of the programme to ensure every child in South Sudan, especially girls and children with disabilities can acquire at least 12 years of quality education.

To read more about the GESS Capitation Grants, click here: Capitation Grants : Girls’ Education South Sudan

Categorised in: Capitation Grants, GESS Events, Girls' Education, Human Interest Story, Quality Education