The Ministry of General Education and Instruction in South Sudan has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with MTN South Sudan and education partners to zero-rate the national e-learning platform, Junub Academy, a move aimed at expanding access to digital learning across the country.
The agreement will enable students and teachers to access educational materials on the platform without incurring internet data charges, a major step toward overcoming one of the biggest barriers to education in the country high internet costs and limited connectivity.
Speaking during the signing ceremony in Juba, the Executive Director of EduCare South Sudan, William Anyuon Madut, described the initiative as a milestone in the country’s efforts to modernize learning and make education more accessible to all.
“This zero-rating means that learners and teachers across the country will be able to access learning resources without data costs,” Madut said.
“It removes one of the biggest obstacles preventing students from benefiting from digital education.”
Madut noted that many students, particularly those in remote areas, often struggle to access learning materials due to the high cost of internet services and limited availability of physical educational resources.
“This is a big contribution by MTN to South Sudan because one of the biggest barriers facing education in the country is the cost of internet,” he added.
“With this initiative, students will be able to access lessons, revision materials, and other digital learning tools freely.”
The Undersecretary at the Ministry of General Education and Instruction, Omot O’Kony Olok, said the platform will also help ensure continuity of learning during emergencies and climate-related disruptions.
“For education, a digital platform is very important because we face many shocks,” Olok said. “Floods, droughts, and other climate challenges often disrupt schooling. The only way for education to continue in such circumstances is through a reliable digital platform.”
He added that the ministry views Junub Academy as a strategic tool that will support e-learning when schools are forced to close or when students cannot physically attend classes.
The ministry expressed appreciation to MTN and EduCare for supporting the initiative, noting that the platform is expected to benefit thousands of secondary school students across the country.
Meanwhile, the Chief Executive Officer of MTN South Sudan, Mapula Bodibe, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to promoting connectivity and bridging the digital divide in South Sudan.
“This is such a momentous occasion because MTN truly believes that connectivity is one of the key enablers for driving progress,” Bodibe said. “Learners will now have access to online education without any data cost, allowing them to develop themselves and empower their future.”
She emphasized that the partnership reflects MTN’s broader vision of ensuring that everyone benefits from a modern, connected life.
Bodibe also commended EduCare and the Ministry of General Education for their leadership in developing the digital learning platform, noting that initiatives like Junub Academy demonstrate how partnerships between the private sector and government can transform access to education.
Education stakeholders say the launch of Junub Academy marks the beginning of a new chapter for South Sudan’s education sector, as the country continues to explore innovative ways to deliver quality education despite environmental, infrastructural, and logistical challenges.
With free access to online learning resources now available through the zero-rating initiative, officials believe more students across the country will be able to continue learning, improve academic performance, and keep pace with global educational standards.
