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Classes for the 4th academic year at the Marial Bai Secondary School will start early this spring. We need your support! Help us prepare for 2012 by making a contribution today! To learn more about our progress in 2011, read on.
2011 Highlights
January After a 20-year conflict that claimed at least 2 million lives, an internationally-backed referendum is held with southern Sudanese voting nearly 99% for secession from the north. The Government of southern Sudan called upon all southerners – especially those who can read and write – to help with voter registration, community outreach, and other efforts. Since MBSS is seen as one of the top academic institutions in the region, our students were asked to play a leadership role in the referendum preparation.
February-March Construction begins on 2 buildings making up the boys’ dormitories and is completed in just one month. MBSS is still the only high school in the entire region, and many students travel great distances to attend class. Last year, we built girls’ dormitories- the success of this project highlighted the need for a boys’ dorm as well. The dorms provide accommodations for over 200 students; shared rooms are equipped with beds, linens, and storage space for clothing and personal items.
April Thousands of young men and women participate in our annual entrance exams- the highest level of demand for admission. 350 of the brightest students from across the country are admitted, including 60 girls, and a small group of students from refugee camps in East Africa who are finally able to return home after a successful referendum.
May-June Classes for the 3rd academic year are in full swing. In addition to quality academics, one of the main efforts this year has been to help students develop leadership skills and engage in community service. As part of this comprehensive education program, we’ve expanded our extracurricular programs to include student government, drama and debate clubs, scout troops, social action groups, and sports teams.
July On July 9th, a declaration of independence is signed and the Republic of South Sudan becomes the world’s newest nation. Valentino was in Juba on Independence Day, and was invited to the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the brand new US embassy alongside Colin Powell and UN Ambassador Susan Rice. MBSS students were proud to celebrate their independence, and the school was closed that week to allow them to celebrate at home with friends and family.
August-October The 2nd semester begins, led by 10 dedicated teachers from South Sudan, Kenya & Uganda. Most teachers also serve jointly as school administrators, while others oversee after-school extracurricular programs and study halls. The Foundation also employs three cooks, two watchmen, and two part-time ground staff.
November-December Final exams are administered and the school year ends.
Help us prepare for the 2012 school year!
