20/03/2026
Dear Honorable Minister of Health
My name is Deng Malong Chol, a clinical officer and public health advocate from Mading Aweil. I would like to commend the scholarship initiative that has enabled students from Western Equatoria State, particularly Yambio, to continue their education in Aweil.
This is a positive step toward national development and unity.
However, I wish to raise an important public health concern.
The relocation of students into shared learning and living environments presents potential risks for the transmission of communicable diseases if preventive measures are not adequately implemented.
In light of this, I respectfully recommend the introduction of a standardized medical screening protocol for all students participating in this program.
The screening should include
HIV/AIDS testing,
VDRL testing (for syphilis)
Hepatitis B and C screening.
These tests should be conducted prior to relocation and repeated after three months to ensure early detection and effective management where necessary.
It is essential that this measure is applied uniformly to all students, regardless of their origin, in order to promote fairness, prevent stigma, and uphold sound public health principles.
Additionally, I encourage the Ministry to strengthen school-based health systems by incorporating regular medical check-ups, health education, and counseling services. Preventive health strategies must go beyond testing to include awareness and continuous monitoring.
The intention of this recommendation is not to hinder access to education, but to safeguard the health and well-being of students, teachers, and the wider community.
I trust that this matter will receive your serious consideration.
Thank you for your continued service to our nation.
Yours sincerely,
Deng Malong Chol
Clinical Officer & Public Health Advocate
