South Sudan Map (File Image)
By: Ogeryath Oger
Most of the modern-day systems that we have incorporated into our ways of living have constructive impact as well as destructive impact, but to a larger extent, the destructive impact has taken over the environment in which we operate in. But we must be keen to investigate genuinely on why the destructive impact has taken over our societies though we implemented the systems that we think are modern and inline with the evolving world.
As an African state like South Sudan, it is improper to implement the culture of governance like conducting of elections, implementation of democracy as well as the establishment of government organs like national security agencies and government ministries on the path of the Western system or any other system in the world. This is because the life conditions that exist in South Sudan do not match the surrounding states’ conditions and the world.
Therefore, South Sudanese elites or the governors as well as the elders including the youth need to find a suitable system that can match the existing life conditions and provide solutions to the existing challenges. Through implementation of a system that answers the real challenges or the needs of South Sudan, it is possible to bring constructive impact on the ground.
But, how can we find out the most suitable system that can enable South Sudanese to overcome the existing problems which are solvable? Basing on my opinion, the most suitable system can be generated through Cultural Revolution in the political, economic and social lives, not ignoring education system.
The Cultural Revolution in the political system, must address transparency in governance, bring real understanding on what elections are and clarify the duty of parliament and the real understanding of democracy. In a country like South Sudan, the citizens must be educated in order to be able to conduct elections so that they are free from confusion/tribalism and elect the leaders that represent the interests of the people. But elections can not be conducted in an environment that is composed of a population that is not educated and free.
Likewise, democracy is a decoration that actually does not exist in Africa, but it is a weapon that is used by the political elites to win the support of the people through false campaigns. Democracy shouldn’t only be attached to elections but should be implemented on the ground through the actual implementation of the promises made by the political elites. If democracy means elections, then our societies shall forever be in a dark. Democracy as well means the power of the people in terms of the changes that they need to have in the society.
Therefore, political Cultural Revolution addresses the real meaning and implementation of elections, democracy and the establishment of government organs like parliament and national security agencies to bring security, political awareness and freedom to the masses of people in the society as well as improving the living conditions of the citizens other than enriching the politicians. Therefore, in a country where the politicians are healthier, richer and more secure than the citizens, this represents the political chaos in the political system.
The Cultural Revolution in the social sector, must address education, health and ethnic diversity which are the origins of life in the society. Social life is essential because it acts as the origin from which life is created in terms of morality and peaceful co-existence. We have many different tribes in South Sudan which need to be enlightened that a tribe is a representation of a group of people that share the same language or the same cultural values in a specific society and therefore a tribe isn’t and can not be used as a weapon of destruction but building togetherness and bringing about peaceful co-existence.
Therefore, Cultural Revolution in social life must bring common understanding among the various the tribes that diversity is a gift and there is no tribal superiority because only death is the most superior in the whole world.
Uniting tribes in South Sudan involves addressing deep-rooted cultural, social, and political challenges. Here are some strategies that could foster unity:
- Promote Dialogue and Understanding: Encourage open dialogues between different tribes to build mutual understanding and respect. Community forums, workshops, and cultural exchange programs can facilitate this.
- Inclusive Governance: Establish a political framework that represents diverse tribal interests. Ensure that all tribes have a voice in decision-making processes.
- Economic Cooperation: Develop initiatives that promote economic collaboration among tribes. Joint ventures in agriculture, trade, and infrastructure can create interdependence and shared interests.
- Education and Awareness: Implement educational programs that highlight the importance of unity and cooperation. Curriculum should include the histories and contributions of various tribes to foster pride and respect.
- Conflict Resolution Mechanisms: Create systems for resolving disputes peacefully and fairly. Traditional mediation methods can be effective if integrated with formal legal frameworks.
- Cultural Celebrations: Organize events that celebrate the diverse cultures of Sudan. This can help highlight commonalities and foster a sense of shared identity.
- Support Grassroots Initiatives: Empower local leaders and organizations that work toward unity. Grassroots movements can effectively bridge divides and promote reconciliation.
- Focus on Shared Goals: Identify common challenges, such as poverty or access to resources, and work collectively toward solutions that benefit all tribes.
- Encourage Intermarriage: Promote social integration through intermarriage, which can help blend cultures and create familial ties across tribal lines.
- Leverage Media: Use media to highlight positive stories of cooperation and success among tribes, countering narratives of division.
Achieving unity will require patience, commitment, and collaboration among all stakeholders. Building trust and addressing grievances is essential for long-term peace and cohesion.
Reforming education in South Sudan is a multifaceted challenge that requires a holistic approach. Here are some key strategies:
- Increase Investment: Governments and stakeholders should prioritize education funding to improve infrastructure, resources, and teacher salaries.
- Curriculum Relevance: Update curricula to reflect local contexts, cultures, and economies. Emphasize skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and entrepreneurship.
- Teacher Training: Enhance teacher training programs to ensure educators are well-prepared and motivated. Ongoing professional development is essential.
- Technology Integration: Utilize technology to enhance learning experiences, making education more accessible, especially in remote areas.
- Inclusive Education: Promote policies that support marginalized groups, including girls, disabled students, and those in rural areas, to ensure equitable access to quality education.
- Community Engagement: Involve local communities in the education process to ensure that schools meet their needs and to foster a culture of learning.
- Partnerships: Collaborate with NGOs, private sectors, and international organizations to leverage resources and expertise.
- Focus on Vocational Training: Develop vocational education programs to equip students with practical skills that align with job market demands.
- Assessment and Accountability: Implement effective assessment systems to measure educational outcomes and hold institutions accountable for their performance.
- Promote Lifelong Learning: Encourage continuous education and skill development beyond traditional schooling to adapt to changing job markets.
Addressing these areas can create a more robust and equitable education system that meets the diverse needs of populations.
Reforming an economy is a complex process that requires careful planning and execution. Here are several key strategies to consider:
- Strengthen Governance and Institutions: Improve transparency, reduce corruption, and enhance the efficiency of public institutions. Strong legal and regulatory frameworks are essential for economic stability.
- Diversify the Economy: Reduce reliance on a single sector (like agriculture or oil) by promoting diversification into industries such as manufacturing, services, and technology.
- Invest in Infrastructure: Improve transportation, energy, and digital infrastructure to facilitate business operations and attract investment.
- Enhance Education and Skills Training: Invest in education systems to build a skilled workforce that can adapt to changing economic demands.
- Promote Entrepreneurship: Create a supportive environment for startups through access to finance, mentoring, and reducing bureaucratic hurdles.
- Encourage Foreign Investment: Implement policies that attract foreign direct investment while ensuring that local businesses can compete.
- Foster Innovation and Technology: Support research and development and create innovation hubs to stimulate technological advancement.
- Implement Trade Policies: Establish favourable trade agreements to open up markets, reduce tariffs, and encourage export-oriented growth.
- Strengthen Social Safety Nets: Develop social protection programs to support vulnerable populations and reduce inequality, which can lead to more stable economic growth.
- Promote Sustainable Development: Integrate sustainability into economic policies to ensure long-term viability, balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship.
These strategies can help create a resilient economy that promotes growth, reduces poverty, and improves overall quality of life. Finally, political, social and economic revolution require intergenerational commitment and a systematic process that go on and well followed for years.
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