As a South Sudanese student, I understand the unique challenges that come with studying abroad or even within Africa. We carry the hopes of a young nation on our shoulders, a nation that still needs builders, innovators, and leaders. That is why I want to share this simple but heartfelt advice with all South Sudanese students around the world. Focus, discipline, and purpose will determine the future of our country.
Time is precious, don’t waste it at tea places.
Many of us spend long hours sitting at tea places, chatting, debating politics, or gossiping about others. While it’s good to socialize, time is a resource that never comes back once lost. Every hour you spend at a tea place could be an hour spent improving your knowledge, building your skills, or developing your dreams. Remember, education is a privilege that not everyone in South Sudan has. Honor that privilege by using your time wisely.
Distance yourself from politics and unnecessary distractions.
Politics is an important part of every nation, but as students, our first duty is to learn. Unfortunately, some young people allow political debates or tribal divisions to consume their minds, forgetting why they are abroad in the first place.
You cannot build a nation if you haven’t yet built yourself. Focus first on becoming a professional, an expert, and a thinker. Politics will find you when you’re ready to make a real impact.
Focus on education
Whether you are a boy or a girl, education is the foundation of progress. Study hard, stay disciplined, and don’t be discouraged by challenges. Remember, you are not just studying for yourself, you are studying for your family, your community, and your nation.
Think about the bigger picture.
South Sudan is a young country full of potential. We need engineers to build roads, doctors to heal, teachers to educate, and entrepreneurs to innovate. Every South Sudanese student abroad represents a possible solution to one of our country’s problems.
Ask yourself daily: “How will I use what I’m learning to make South Sudan better?” Let that question guide your choices, your habits, and your friendships.
One day, you will serve our beautiful nation.
When you finish your studies, remember that your education is not only for you, it’s for your people. South Sudan needs educated men and women who will rise above tribalism, corruption, and laziness. You are the generation that will write a new story for our country, a story of unity, knowledge, and progress.
So, my dear brothers and sisters, please spend your time wisely, keep your heart clean and your mind focused, and build yourself today so that tomorrow you can make South Sudan.
Let’s be proud ambassadors of our homeland wherever we go. The writer is a South Sudanese student in Kenya and can be reached via kuokmathpiwchuol@gmail.com.
The views expressed in ‘opinion’ articles published by Radio Tamazuj are solely those of the writer. The veracity of any claims made is the responsibility of the author, not Radio Tamazuj.