This is the second time in consecutive years that the country has been forced to close schools due to dangerous heat in February and March.

A Growing Health Crisis for Students

In the capital Juba, an average of 12 students have been collapsing daily, according to Deputy Education Minister Martin Tako Moi. The situation is particularly severe because many schools in South Sudan operate in makeshift structures made of iron sheets, lacking electricity and cooling systems.

"Dangerous heat like this is catastrophic for children's physical and mental health," warns Christopher Nyamandi, Country Director for Save the Children in South Sudan.

Because children's bodies are still developing, they are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses, exhaustion, and long-term health impacts, he added.

Climate Change and a Fragile Nation

South Sudan faces extreme climate conditions, swinging between severe flooding during the rainy season and scorching heat waves. Environment Minister Josephine Napwon Cosmos has recommended work shifts for government employees to avoid heat strokes.

The country's response to climate-related disasters is complicated by its fragile health system, which has struggled to recover from years of political instability and economic crisis.

A Call for Climate Justice

"When we talk about climate justice, this is what we mean," Nyamandi emphasized. "The climate crisis is a child rights crisis, and we need urgent action to protect children's wellbeing."

South Sudan's crisis is further compounded by economic struggles. The country, which heavily relies on oil exports, faced severe disruptions after a key pipeline was damaged in neighboring war-torn Sudan.

With elections postponed due to funding shortages, the country is grappling with political uncertainty, economic hardship, and the devastating consequences of climate change—all hitting its youngest citizens the hardest.