UN Volunteers serving with UNISFA have continued to contribute to the education sector in Abyei by donating books to the library at Comboni School. Serving nearly 1,500 students from nursery to secondary levels, the school boasts the only library in Abyei, which offers much needed resources for both students and teachers.

The library, the first of its kind in Abyei, sponsored by UNVs, received the donation of the books as part of an ongoing campaign dubbed "Bring along 1 book back from home," targeting UNISFA personnel. In addition to the books donated, the UNVs also received  cash donations and purchased additional books requested by the school’s administration.  

18-year-old Rosane Santino a student in Senior four was excited and thankful for the donation. She said this provided her with the opportunity to learn more and improve her confidence.

“For sure studies will improve because you have provided us with books. During break time, we can go to the library and look for solutions to difficult class questions. Our teachers will now teach us very well because they lacked books. Now, I hope what was against us is now solved and we thank you for that”.

According to Jok Puat, a teacher in the English department, the student’s ability to research and solve problems will enrich their learning.

“The library will empower the students and make them know what to do with their lives. Previously, when we gave questions to the pupils, they found it difficult to research because the internet is costly for many and very slow. Now, they can go to the library and search for answers. That is a great achievement of UNISFA.”

Mr. Mading, the Principal of Comboni Primary and Secondary School, said the students will develop reading habits adding that both students and teachers are benefitting from the well-stocked library in a significant way.

“Most of our students do not have books at home where they can additional information. Some of them do not know how to use dictionaries, or how words are arranged alphabetically. So, this also will open their mind, when they go to other countries like Uganda and Kenya, it will be very easy for them to interact and integrate with the others who are there.”

The UNV Coordinator, Eunice Apita, expressed optimism that through the spirit of volunteerism, the volunteers will be able to pull more resources and support the youth of Abyei.