The program not only brought joy to children but also demonstrated the commitment of the Vietnamese peacekeeping force to supporting local communities, promoting education, and protecting children's rights.
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Sr. Capt. Vu Nguyen Anh teaching in class |
Challenges at a newly-established school
Though it was put into operation two weeks ago, Bright Future School has already become a learning haven for children from kindergarten through high school in Terekeka. However, with limited resources, the school has just a few classrooms and only eight teachers. Classes are multi-level to ensure that every child has access to learning opportunities.
In addition to the lack of teaching equipment, the school faces serious infrastructure challenges. The absence of clean water, electricity, and sanitation facilities poses many difficulties for both students and teachers. For boys, the temporary solution is finding a remote spot for personal needs. But for female students, this has become a much more serious issue, affecting their health, confidence, and ability to attend school regularly.
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Sr. Capt. Anh and South Sudanese students |
Principal Abraham Ajang shared that the current learning environment remains extremely difficult, especially with the rainy season approaching. Flooding and muddy conditions not only disrupt classes but also increase health risks due to poor sanitation. In this context, support from the international community and humanitarian organizations is crucial to improve the living and learning conditions for students.
As the first Vietnamese officer to be accepted into the UNMISS Military Observer Training Unit, Sr. Capt. Vu Nguyet Anh not only fulfills her professional duties but also actively participates in community outreach. At Bright Future School, she and her colleagues have organized life skills lessons, shared practical knowledge, and encouraged students to persevere through hardship. This effort has helped strengthen trust between the Mission and the local community, creating a solid foundation for implementing civilian and security operations in the area.
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Capt. Anh and female South Sudanese students |
These outreach activities also help UNMISS deepen its engagement with the community, build communication channels for sharing information related to security, conflict prevention, and the promotion of long-term peace solutions. Anh pays particular attention to raising awareness among female students about their rights.
She said, “I always hope that every child, especially girls, realizes that they have the power to shape their own future. Education is not only a way out of current hardship but also a tool to create real change in the community.”
The delegation also donated books and school supplies to support the children in their educational journey. Alith Ngok, a teacher at the school, emotionally said, “The presence of peacekeeping officers, especially Sr. Capt. Vu Nguyet Anh, has not only brought hope to the school but also given us the strength to overcome difficulties.”
Alice Kolong, a sixth grader, talked about her dream, “I’m very happy to receive books and learn with peacekeeping officers. I want to study hard so I can help other children like you’ve helped me today.”
Spreading the image of Vietnam on the international stage
The event in Terekeka is more than a charitable activity; it is a powerful symbol of Vietnam’s responsibility for global peacekeeping. The image of Capt. Anh, a devoted, courageous female officer deeply engaged with the community, has helped raise Vietnam’s position in the eyes of the international community.
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Sr. Capt. Vu Nguyen Anh in an exchange with students of Bright Future Shcool |
Through activities that support education, protect children's rights, and promote gender equality, she has not only conveyed a message of humanity but also highlighted the increasingly important role of Vietnamese female soldiers in peacekeeping missions. Her work has directly contributed to two U.N. Sustainable Development Goals: quality education and gender equality under the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This is not only a personal source of pride but also a significant step for Vietnam in its U.N. peacekeeping journey.
Lieutenant Colonel Maduk Dang, a South Sudanese liaison officer accompanying the mission, appreciated the contributions of the Vietnam People’s Army to the peacekeeping mission in South Sudan. According to him, Vietnamese officers not only excel in their professional duties but also actively support the local community, especially in education and child protection.
“The sense of responsibility and dedication of the Vietnam People’s Army has created a positive impact, building trust between UNMISS and local people, and also demonstrating deep humanitarian values,” said Lt. Col. Maduk Dang.
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Lt. Col. Maduk Dan (left) and Sr. Capt. Vu Nguyet Anh talking with students |
The role of the Vietnam People’s Army is reflected not only in its peacekeeping missions but also in its efforts to promote sustainable development, protect civilians, and build lasting peace. Officers like Sr. Capt. Vu Nguyet Anh have played a vital part in enhancing Vietnam’s international reputation, affirming the spirit of responsibility, unity, and compassion in global missions.
By Nguyet Cat from South Sudan
Translated by Tran Hoai