Mathok, alongside politicians and academics mentored by Amoi, gathered over the weekend at Ariath in Aweil North County to honour the veteran educator’s century-long legacy and pledge to commemorate his life through a school to be built in his name.
During the funeral services held at Ariath last weekend—Amoi’s ancestral home in Aweil North County, Northern Bahr El Ghazal State, mourners praised his lifelong commitment to education, leadership, and community service across Sudan and South Sudan.
The late teacher is the father of the former Northern Bahr El Ghazal State Speaker, Achol William Amoi.
Mathok, who studied under Ustaz Amoi at Aweil National Secondary School in the 1970s and is also a family member, described him as a towering figure whose impact shaped generations of leaders.
He said many speakers reflected on Amoi’s dedication to uplifting learners throughout his extensive teaching career in Kuajok, Wau, El Fasher, and other parts of the region.
“Many people were uplifted by William Amoi—including myself and even President Kiir—as he taught in various towns and left a mark everywhere he worked. Because of this, we have accepted that we will build a school to revere him,” Mathok said.
He added that Amoi also played a significant role during the liberation struggle by mobilising communities and rescuing abducted children.
One engineer, who survived captivity in Western Sudan due to Amoi’s intervention, shared his testimony at the funeral and pledged support for establishing a school in the late teacher’s honour.
Mathok further eulogised Amoi as an egalitarian and dedicated educator who valued his teaching profession more than political ambition.
He recalled that although Amoi once considered contesting a parliamentary seat against the late veteran politician Lual Diing Wol, he later withdrew and advised his nephew, Malong Diing, not to challenge Lual—a gesture Mathok said reflected humility rarely seen among today’s politicians.
“Uncle Ustaz William never aligned himself with people who sought political dominance. His character teaches us that not everyone is meant for politics,” Mathok said.
He added that the late Amoi is survived by several accomplished sons and daughters, some living abroad and others serving the country in various fields. Mathok expressed hope that South Sudanese would emulate Amoi’s humility, integrity, and passion for nation-building.
As the funeral concluded, mourners emphasised that the responsibility now lies with Amoi’s former students and community members to fulfil their pledge by establishing a school in his name—either in Ariath or elsewhere in Northern Bahr El Ghazal—ensuring that his legacy continues to inspire generations to come.
