Learning, leadership and opportunity

Dear Friend,

As Term 2 continues at Ibba Girls Boarding School (IGBS), we are delighted to share this latest edition of our newsletter, bringing together stories from across the school and the wider FIGS community. From learning and leadership to life beyond the classroom, this edition reflects a school community that continues to grow and evolve.

At IGBS, there has been encouraging progress towards strengthening the school's long-term sustainability, with representatives from Windle Trust International (WTI) and Ripple Effect recently completing an agricultural scoping visit to explore opportunities for food production, improved nutrition and agricultural learning. Construction of a new two-classroom block has also reached the roofing stage, bringing the school closer to creating additional learning spaces for students and expanding access to high-quality education.

We also include updates from several IGBS school leavers, including from Rejoice, IGBS’s first Head Girl, who is now studying at the Catholic University in Wau. Five others are currently undertaking midwifery training at Maridi Training College with support from Windle Trust International. These developments demonstrate how the impact of IGBS extends far beyond the school gates.

This newsletter also marks a period of transition and renewal. As promised in our last edition, we are pleased to share reflections from Archbishop Samuel Peni as he concludes his service as Chair of the IGBS Board of Trustees. Archbishop Peni’s leadership helped strengthen governance and guide the school through an important period of development, and we are deeply grateful for his service. We are also delighted to welcome Hon. Grace Apollo as the new Chair and look forward to working with her as IGBS enters its next chapter. We hope you will enjoy hearing from them directly as they both share powerful messages of reflection, leadership, and hope for the future of the school.

Within FIGS, we welcome Daniel Chisoni as our Communications and Fundraising Officer and look forward to the experience and perspective he brings to our work. Welcome to the team, Daniel!

Finally, we remember two individuals whose contributions continue to shape our journey. We pay tribute to Michael Paget-Wilkes, a founding Trustee and Vice President of FIGS, whose encouragement and support played an important role in the early development of IGBS. Founding FIGS Chair Professor John Benington has written a moving piece in memory of Michael’s contributions to FIGS.

We are also deeply grateful for the legacy gift left by Keith Wilding, which will help fund a new dormitory at IGBS and serves as a powerful reminder of the lasting difference that legacy giving can make for future generations of girls.

Across classrooms, communities, and professional training, we continue to see the growing impact of IGBS in the lives of the girls and community it serves. I hope you will enjoy reading these updates, which reflect the continued progress of IGBS and the opportunities education is opening for girls.

Very best wishes,

Chris Trott CVO
Chair of FIGS Trustees

Representatives from Windle Trust International (WTI) and Ripple Effect visited Ibba Girls Boarding School (IGBS) in June to undertake a scoping exercise exploring how agriculture could strengthen the school's long-term sustainability.

The visit was led by Deogratious Egeru, Ripple Effect's Enterprise, Development and Innovation Coordinator based in Kampala; Claire Nsubuga, District Coordinator; Franco Monday, Livelihood Coordinator from Ripple Effect, and Galdino Sakondo, WTI's Director of Programmes. Over the course of a week, the team met with members of the IGBS community, local leaders, church representatives and education officials in Ibba and Yambio. They were joined by IGBS Head Teacher Rita Akello during consultative meetings in Yambio and also visited Rimenze, the demonstration farm run by Solidarity with South Sudan, to explore practical approaches that could inform future agricultural activities at IGBS.

A three-day stakeholder workshop at IGBS provided an opportunity to map perspectives, identify opportunities and risks, and discuss governance arrangements for a potential agricultural initiative. The scoping exercise reaffirmed a shared ambition to support greater food self-sufficiency at IGBS, improve the diversity of students' diets, reduce food costs, and develop agricultural education opportunities for girls. Community leaders and technical experts welcomed the initiative enthusiastically and pledged their support.

Ripple Effect will now synthesise the findings from these consultations into a comprehensive report to help inform the next phase of work.

Reflecting on the visit, Deogratious said:

"The opportunity is real, and if we anchor the school agricultural project in education, manage expectations wisely and design for what communities can truly sustain, IGBS can become a model that others proudly follow."

Over the coming months, FIGS, IGBS, WTI and Ripple Effect will continue working together to review the findings and explore practical next steps towards strengthening the school's long-term sustainability.

FIGS is grateful to WTI, Ripple Effect and all members of the IGBS community whose engagement and expertise made this important visit a success.

Photos from WTI and Ripple Effect scoping visit

IGBS continues to expand steadily as demand for places grows. Since opening in 2011 with just 40 girls, the school now supports over 320 students, reflecting both the strength of the model and the continued need for access to girls’ education in the region.

Construction of a new two-classroom block has now reached the roofing stage. The roof structure has been raised, timber trusses fixed, and iron sheets installed. Work began in January and has progressed steadily, despite some initial resource challenges, with the full shape of the building now clearly visible on site.

Once completed, the additional classrooms will create further learning space at IGBS, creating more learning space for the girls to access and thrive in education.

We are grateful to the Africa Education Trust, one of the implementing partners supporting this work through the wider Girls’ Education South Sudan programme.

A two-classroom block under construction at IGBS

Rejoice was IGBS's first Head Girl.

In the 2023 national secondary school examinations, she was the second-best-performing student in all of South Sudan: an incredible achievement. She is currently studying for a degree in Agricultural Science at the Catholic University in Wau.

Rejoice has completed the second year of her four-year degree programme and began her third year of study on 1st June.

Reflecting on her experience, she notes: “If I had not gone to IGBS, my life would have been much more limited.”

Rejoice embodies what FIGS hopes to achieve: enabling more girls to access education, fulfil their potential, and enter professional careers.

With agriculture central to livelihoods in South Sudan, her degree places her in a field closely linked to the country’s economy and development.

Rejoice: IGBS school leaver

On 5th May this year, FIGS joined the world in commemorating the International Day of the Midwife. This year’s theme, “One Million More Midwives,” highlights the urgent need for more trained midwives, particularly in countries such as South Sudan, where shortages remain acute. It also calls for greater investment in midwifery education.

IGBS is contributing to this goal. Five recent school leavers from IGBS are now training as midwives at Maridi Health Institute in South Sudan through scholarships provided by Windle Trust International, our long-standing partner.

Already, the students are gaining practical experience in their communities. With supervision, they assist with safe deliveries, conduct community health assessments, support early diagnosis, and provide maternal and postnatal care. Their training is exposing them to the realities of healthcare delivery in a context where access to skilled medical professionals remains limited.

Their work is also building trust within their communities. As one student, Grace, explains, local people increasingly seek her advice and often refer to her as “doctor”.

The students' progress was recently highlighted by Claire Bonavero in her International Day of the Midwife blog. Drawing on Windle Trust International reporting, she notes that the students “often travel long distances to follow up with patients in their homes, demonstrating their commitment to applying theoretical knowledge in real-life situations.”

In a country where few girls progress to tertiary education, these experiences illustrate how quality education can open pathways into professions that are in short supply, while also enabling young women to contribute directly to the well-being of their communities.

We are grateful to Windle Trust International for supporting all five students with scholarships.

IGBS' five school leavers (in uniform) and a representative of Windle Trust International

In the previous edition, we announced Hon. Grace Apollo as the new IGBS Board Chairperson. In this edition, we share a brief profile of her background and vision.

Grace Apollo was born in Yambio, Western Equatoria State. She completed her secondary education in Juba and later earned a Diploma from Kampala University in Uganda. She is currently awaiting graduation with a Bachelor’s degree in Social Science and Social Administration from Mikese University in Yambio.

Grace’s journey has taken many turns. After secondary school, she was unable to proceed to university due to financial constraints and instead began working as a typist. She later entered politics and served as a Member of Parliament for ten years. In 2021, she was appointed State Minister of Education in Western Equatoria State, a position she held until July 2025. She subsequently served as State Advisor for Economic Affairs.

Throughout her career, Grace has demonstrated a strong commitment to girls’ education. Alongside her public service roles, she founded and continues to run Yabongo Girls Boarding School in Yambio.

As the newly appointed Chair of IGBS, Grace hopes to inspire more girls to pursue education and leadership. In her own words:

“IGBS raises the standard of our girls and reduces the rate of early pregnancy and forced marriage. Being a female Chair of IGBS, I hope to motivate the girls and also bring great change to their lives.”

Grace sees IGBS as a growing centre of opportunity for young women in South Sudan. As Chair, she hopes to build on the school's achievements, inspire more girls to pursue education and leadership, and help ensure that IGBS continues to transform lives for generations to come.

Grace Apollo, Chair of IGBS Board of Trustees

By Archbishop Samuel Peni

There are moments that make every challenge worthwhile. Seeing former IGBS students training as nurses, teachers, and other professionals is one of them. When I see these young women pursuing careers that once seemed beyond reach, I am reminded of how far the school has come and why this work matters.

My name is Archbishop Samuel Enosa Peni, the outgoing Chairperson of the IGBS Board of Trustees. I was born in 1970 during the Anyanya II civil war and raised in Yambio, Western Equatoria State, a remote part of South Sudan bordering the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Central African Republic. Growing up in a country shaped by conflict, many young men of my generation aspired to military service. I was no different. My ambition was to become a military politician and study Political Science.

After completing secondary school, I travelled to a refugee camp in the Democratic Republic of Congo with plans to continue to Khartoum for military training. I spent six months in the camp waiting for that opportunity. During that time, I reflected deeply on the future I wanted. I realised that joining the military would take me far from my family, perhaps leaving us separated for years with little contact. I decided instead to return home and pursue a different path.

Back in Yambio, I began teaching at an upper primary school. This was a turning point in my life. Teaching opened my eyes to the transformative power of education. I later studied at Bishop Yeremaya Theological Institute before attending Carlile College in Nairobi, Kenya, where I graduated with Honours in Theology. I went on to earn a Master's degree in Theology from Wartburg Seminary and later, another Master's degree in Community Development from the University of Dubuque Theological Seminary in the United States. I also obtained a postgraduate diploma in Ecumenical Studies from the University of Geneva and am currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry degree at Virginia Theological Seminary in the United States.

Over the years, I have served in various leadership positions within the Episcopal Church of South Sudan and beyond. I was the first Bishop of the Diocese of Nzara for ten years and later served as Archbishop of Western Equatoria Internal Province for seven years. These roles gave me opportunities to serve communities, support development initiatives, and advocate for education.

My connection to IGBS began at Addis Ababa Airport, where I met John Benington and Jean Hartley. The two shared their vision for girls' education in Ibba and the work they hoped to achieve. Years later, I was invited to serve as Chair of the school's Board of Trustees.

When I stepped into the role, the school was facing some challenges. Several board members had stepped down, and confidence among stakeholders needed rebuilding. Before making decisions, I felt it was important to listen. I visited the school and met people from every part of the IGBS community: cleaners, watchmen, cooks, gardeners, teachers, student leaders, parents, local leaders, and government representatives.

I asked each group two simple questions: What went wrong? And how can it be fixed? Those conversations were honest and sometimes difficult, but they helped us understand the issues and identify practical solutions together. The recommendations that emerged helped calm tensions, rebuild trust, and restore a shared sense of purpose.

Over time, we focused on strengthening governance, improving communication, and supporting collaboration between all stakeholders. Gradually, stability returned, and the school continued to move forward.

What stayed with me most throughout this journey was the resilience of the girls and the dedication of the staff. Even during difficult periods, learning continued. The commitment I witnessed from both students and teachers gave meaning to every effort we made.

Today, I am proud of what IGBS has become. I am proud to see girls excelling academically. I am proud to see them debating national issues with confidence and articulating their ideas with conviction. I am proud to see school leavers progressing into professional training and already serving in fields such as education and healthcare. I am confident that many of these young women will become future leaders of South Sudan.

The school is even more significant considering where it is located. Western Equatoria State is one of the remotest parts of the country, where access to quality education has historically been limited. IGBS offers girls a safe environment, trained teachers, and opportunities that many would otherwise never have. This is a place where potential is recognised, nurtured, and encouraged to flourish.

As I step away from this role, I do so with gratitude. I thank God for the vision that inspired this school and for all those who have worked tirelessly to make it a reality. My thanks go to FIGS, trustees past and present, staff in South Sudan and the UK, our partners, supporters, and donors. I also wish to thank Hon. Grace Apollo for standing alongside me in supporting the school's mission.

To everyone who has contributed in one way or another, I want to assure you that your support has not been wasted. Your generosity is helping to educate girls, strengthen communities, and build peace through opportunity. The young women being formed at IGBS will go on to shape their families, communities, and country in ways we may not yet fully imagine.

My prayer is that these girls continue to grow in courage and confidence. May they help transform narratives of conflict, tribalism, and division into a future marked by peace, justice, and opportunity for all.

May God bless you abundantly.

Archbishop Samuel Peni, former Chair of IGBS Board of Trustees

By John Benington

Jean (Hartley) and I were honoured to attend the celebration of Mike’s (Michael Paget-Wilkes) life and work in Cirencester on 5th May 2026.

We remember Mike with deep gratitude and respect for his long-standing commitment to East Africa and South Sudan. His contribution to the early journey of IGBS is even more memorable.

In 2008, Mike visited South Sudan with Archbishop Rowan Williams during a period when the country was preparing for independence. At that time, many leaders, including the clergy, expressed a need for practical skills to help build the new nation, alongside spiritual and institutional support. Mike responded with action.

He used his experience and networks very well, and introduced Jean and me to various leaders in South Sudan. He encouraged us to share our knowledge and experience in governance and leadership. This led to a series of voluntary visits to Juba, where we engaged with government officials, church leaders, and emerging institutions. Mike joined us on our first visit and introduced us to many leaders including the Vice President, Riek Machar.

During one of these early visits, we met Bridget Nagomoro, who by then was working with the government. Bridget shared her vision of establishing a girls’ boarding school in Ibba. That conversation marked the beginning of what would later grow into IGBS.

Mike’s contribution was not only in ideas, but in connection, trust, and encouragement. His name remains closely linked to the early foundation of IGBS, and his legacy lives on in the lives of the girls educated at IGBS, and in the communities they are helping to build.

May we continue to remember Mike’s contribution and celebrate the lasting difference he made in the lives of so many young women.

Reverend Michael Paget-Wilkes
Dec 11th, 1941 – April 9th, 2026

We are delighted to welcome Daniel Chisoni as our new Communications and Fundraising Officer.

Following a highly competitive open recruitment process that attracted more than 95 applications from candidates across the UK and internationally, Daniel emerged as the outstanding candidate. He brings valuable experience in fundraising, communications, and international development, having worked as a journalist and with grant-making organisations including World Connect.

Daniel's combination of fundraising expertise, communications skills, and personal commitment to expanding educational opportunities makes him a strong addition to the FIGS team.

Daniel had this to say;

“I resonate closely with the story of the girls at Ibba Girls Boarding School. Growing up in Malawi, I witnessed how limited access to education in a poor country can restrict the potential of many young people, despite their talent. I also faced challenges of accessing education myself and was supported by organisations that helped me remain in school. Without that support, my own educational journey would have been very different.

The situation facing girls in South Sudan is even more difficult. Prolonged conflict and extreme poverty have severely affected access to education, especially for girls who face additional barriers linked to gender, safety, and social expectations. The need for support is urgent, and I believe I can contribute my knowledge and experience towards empowering girls through education.

I am therefore very pleased to join FIGS and work alongside people who are genuinely passionate about creating opportunities for girls. I particularly value the community-led approach taken by FIGS, which enables local people to lead and manage IGBS. I strongly believe that educating girls in Ibba County is a pathway to building stronger communities and a more hopeful future for South Sudan.”

Daniel Chisoni, FIGS Communications and Fundraising Officer

On 7th May, FIGS Vice Chair, Professor Jean Hartley, was awarded the Alumni and Supporter Volunteer of the Year at the University of Reading’s Celebration of Volunteering Awards.

Each year, the University of Reading recognises volunteers whose dedication and service make a meaningful difference in communities worldwide. The event was held at the University’s Whiteknights campus, where Jean was delighted to be accompanied by fellow University of Reading alumna and FIGS supporter Mary Buxton.

Jean was recognised for her commitment to girls’ education through IGBS in South Sudan. The award highlights the impact of her contribution to expanding educational opportunities for girls and supporting the growth of IGBS.

Please click below to watch an inspiring video from the event.

A legacy gift is more than a donation. It is a way to support causes and communities that matter to you, creating opportunities that can have a lasting impact for years to come. If you would like to explore legacy giving or speak with us in confidence, please do feel free to contact us at [email protected].

We are pleased to share that we have received a further instalment of the legacy gift left by the late Keith Wilding. His gift is helping to fund the construction of a new dormitory at IGBS, which will increase the school’s capacity to 360 girls. Construction is planned to begin in December 2026 during the school holidays to minimise disruption to students. Keith's legacy will live on not only through his family but also through the opportunities this creates for future generations of girls at IGBS.

We extend our thanks to Keith’s family for honouring his wishes and helping ensure this support continues to benefit future generations of girls at IGBS.

Legacy gifts play an important role in helping FIGS expand educational opportunities for girls in South Sudan. By including FIGS in your will—whether through a fixed amount or a percentage of your estate—you can help ensure that future generations of girls have access to quality education and brighter futures.

You can read more about legacy giving by visiting: https://www.friendsofibba.org/support-us/legacies

We are very pleased to share that we recently received another generous grant from the Aqueduct Foundation. This support will strengthen FIGS’ core work and sustain the ongoing development of IGBS, helping us continue to expand access to quality education and opportunities for girls in South Sudan.

We would like to extend our thanks to Rachel Horne, Mike Stone, the donors, and the Aqueduct Foundation team.

From all of us at Friends of Ibba Girls School - thank you for reading and for your continued support.