Our roots. Our work. Our future.

Where We Work

South Sudan is home to the VAD Foundation’s work and the communities at the heart of our mission. We support learning through our own school in Marial Bai and a scholarship partnership with Cornerstones Vision Academy in Aweil.

Explore our school partnerships

A student writing in her exercise book at a classroom desk

Learning in Marial Bai and Aweil

Our Schools and Scholarship Partnership

We support students through Marial Bai Secondary School, a VAD Foundation school, and the Scholars Program at Cornerstones Vision Academy, a partner school in Aweil.

Students learning together in a classroom

Marial Bai

Marial Bai Secondary School

Marial Bai Secondary School is the VAD Foundation’s own school. The idea grew from Valentino Achak Deng’s return to his home community and conversations with local leaders. Construction began in 2008, and the school opened in May 2009, creating a path to secondary education for young people in the region, especially girls.

Over time, the campus developed to include learning and community resources such as science facilities, a library, sports spaces, student accommodation, and a school farm. The school reflects the Foundation’s long-term commitment to education rooted in community. After a period of disruption, Marial Bai Secondary School reopened in October 2026.

A student concentrating on her schoolwork

Aweil

Cornerstones Vision Academy

Cornerstones Vision Academy is a partner school in Aweil where VAD Foundation scholarship students study. Through our Scholars Program, we send students to the school and pay their tuition directly to Cornerstones Vision Academy, helping young people access a safe, high-quality education.

The partnership supports academic learning and a broader student experience, including extracurricular activities, sports, arts, and computer skills. Our focus on girls’ education helps students build confidence, explore their interests, and prepare for the future.

Opportunity starts with education

Help students in South Sudan build brighter futures.

Support our work