In 2022, five remarkable graduates of Loreto Rumbek, now working mothers in the northern regions of South Sudan, approached the Loreto Sisters with an inspiring vision. They proposed opening a new school in their hometown of Aweil, located about a 10-hour drive from Rumbek. This week, their dream took a significant step forward as the Loreto Sisters and community members gathered to bless the land and ‘turn the sod’ on the site of a new Loreto School in Aweil.

The new school compound will include a primary day school for boys and girls, as well as a secondary boarding school exclusively for girls. This development represents a beacon of hope and opportunity for a region where young girls face immense barriers to accessing education. Female children in South Sudan often endure extreme adversity in their pursuit of academic success, with cultural, economic, and logistical challenges standing in their way. Many are denied even a basic education and are far more likely to drop out before completing their studies. Despite these obstacles, women and girls remain the backbone of their communities. They shoulder countless responsibilities, including cooking, cleaning, caring for younger siblings, fetching water, tending to family gardens, doing laundry, and collecting firewood. The new Loreto School in Aweil aims to empower them with the education they need to thrive, break cycles of poverty, and become leaders in their communities.

The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by Sr. Noelle Corscadden and Sr. Orla Treacy, along with other Sisters, Loreto Rumbek graduates, the Parish Priest, and the District General. Together, they marked the beginning of this transformative initiative, reaffirming Loreto’s commitment to fostering education and equality in South Sudan.

This milestone is a testament to the enduring impact of education and the strength of the Loreto community. It also highlights the importance of investing in young women, who, with the right opportunities, can change their lives and uplift entire communities.

We look forward to watching the new Loreto School in Aweil grow and flourish, creating a brighter future for the children of South Sudan. Stay tuned for updates as we embark on this exciting journey together.