Sudan’s Ambassador to South Sudan, Issam Karrar, observes students during the commencement of the Sudan Certificate examinations at the Buluk Center on Monday, April 13, 2026. Over 1,300 candidates, including hundreds who fled conflict in Darfur, are sitting for the exams in Juba through a collaborative effort between the two nations - Photo Credit: Omar Musa

More than 800 South Sudanese students are among the 1,330 candidates who began sitting for the Sudan Certificate examinations at the Buluk Centre in Juba.

The examination cohort is composed of 859 South Sudanese students and 471 Sudanese nationals. The group also reflects a diverse regional and international presence, including 10 students from Uganda, seven from Kenya, three from India, and one from Qatar.

Among the candidates are more than 300 students from Al-Daein in Sudan’s East Darfur State. These students completed a grueling 11-day journey to reach Juba, traveling through Aweil and Wau.

The students reportedly faced severe road conditions and frequent vehicle breakdowns as they fled the ongoing conflict in Sudan to ensure they did not miss their academic milestones.

One candidate, Marwa Hamad, described the journey as profoundly challenging but significant. She expressed her gratitude for the warm reception in Juba, noting that the students felt welcomed immediately upon their arrival.

Sudan’s Ambassador to South Sudan, Issam Karrar, presided over the official opening of the examinations. He lauded the South Sudanese authorities for their logistical support and for fostering a stable environment for the learners.

“We thank the government of South Sudan for organizing these examinations for the third consecutive year and for providing a conducive environment for the students,” Ambassador Karrar stated. “They have allowed students to enter without visas, reflecting the strong relations between our two countries.”

The facilitation of the exams marks the third year in a row that South Sudan has hosted the Sudan Certificate for displaced and resident students, underscoring the ongoing educational cooperation between Juba and Khartoum.