Abyei is facing a lack of qualified teachers, textbooks and classroom supplies, according to a top official in the area.

Director of General Services Alor Dou El Bet told Radio Tamazuj that the area, which is claimed by both Sudan and South Sudan, has only 26 schools for nearly 26,000 students.

And there are only 200 qualified teachers working in those schools, resulting from a lack of teacher training institutions in the area.

In addition to a lack of textbooks and chairs, he said the poor road conditions made it difficult for students to travel easily to class. Many go long distances on foot, which can be nearly impossible during the rainy season.

He blamed the education situation on the fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Sudan People’s Liberation Army that took place several years ago and destroyed much of the area’s infrastructure. Officials are asking authorities to provide immediate support to improve the situation.