As part of the celebrations marking China Day, the Chinese Embassy in South Sudan and peacekeepers from the Chinese Battalion of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) on Thursday donated scholastic materials and medical supplies to five schools in Juba.
The schools include Chinese Friendship Secondary School, Jubek Model Memorial Secondary School, and Juba Girls, among others.
China Day is an annual commemoration of the founding of the People’s Republic of China on 1 October 1949. The occasion celebrates China’s national pride, cultural heritage, and growing international partnerships.
In countries such as South Sudan, the event is marked through school ceremonies, cultural performances, and speeches that highlight the deep and enduring friendship between China and partner nations. It also reflects Beijing’s ongoing support in areas such as education, infrastructure, and peacebuilding around the world.
Speaking during the ceremony at Chinese Friendship Secondary School in Juba, Chinese Ambassador Ma Qiang reaffirmed his government’s strong commitment to supporting education and strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries.
He expressed joy at returning to the campus, describing it as “symbolizing China–South Sudan friendship,” and recalled that the school was established in 2011, the same year South Sudan gained independence and formal diplomatic relations with China were established.
“The tree of friendship planted by Chinese leaders still thrives in the campus, and the well of friendship continues to flow with clear water,” he said, calling the school a living testament to enduring cooperation between the two peoples.
Ambassador Ma reflected on China’s own journey from widespread illiteracy to becoming home to “the world’s largest education system,” emphasising that education remains “a fundamental way for mankind to pass on civilisation and knowledge.”
He credited China’s transformation into the world’s second-largest economy and top manufacturing and trading nation to its strong investment in education.
He also praised the Chinese medical and peacekeeping teams who, in his words, “demonstrate the most sincere friendship between the Chinese and South Sudanese peoples through concrete actions.”
Announcing new initiatives, the envoy revealed that outstanding students from the Chinese Friendship Secondary School would be given priority consideration for Chinese government scholarships.
“Live up to the prime of your youth,” he urged the students, “and become a voice of China–South Sudan friendship.”
For his part, Ciricio Zacharia, Central Equatoria State Minister of General Education and Instruction, praised the People’s Republic of China for its sustained support in education, health, and other development sectors.
“I have witnessed a lot of things done by the People’s Republic of China here in Central Equatoria,” he said, acknowledging the tangible benefits of Chinese cooperation.
Minister Zacharia also commended the United Nations for its continued efforts in promoting peace, health, and security in South Sudan.
“I was very happy because the UN has a great role in this country,” he remarked, before stressing the urgency of peace.
Turning to education, the minister lauded students for their determination despite existing challenges, reminding them that “our future is education, if we want to raise this country, we have to learn.”
Meanwhile, Saverio Tombe, a teacher representing staff at the Chinese Friendship Secondary School, appealed for continued support from the Chinese government to enhance the school’s learning environment and improve educational quality.
“The school reflects the friendship between the People’s Republic of China and South Sudan,” he said, adding that Chinese assistance has enabled many students to graduate and contribute to national development.
However, he noted that the school still faces several challenges. “We still have some requests from the government of the People’s Republic of China in the section of sciences, especially the science lab and the computer lab,” he said.
Tombe also highlighted the daily struggles of teachers, many of whom walk long distances to school.
Tao Siru, a staff officer from the Chinese Battalion of UNMISS, shared moving reflections on peace, development, and healing during the ceremony.
Tao said that being among “such bright and curious young minds” reminded her of her own school days. She narrated three “miracles” of development, healing, and safety, drawing lessons from her life and China’s transformation.