This study investigates perceived risks as a component of social cohesion at the community level and access to education through a mixed methods investigation of local dynamics in conflict-affected South Sudanese communities. In a series of papers, I examine the nature of social cohesion and how perceptions of risk from diverse community members’ show a link to enrollment rates. Next, I discuss complex local perceptions by informant groups that include traditional and religious leaders, youth and women’s groups representatives, education personnel and NGO workers to illustrate convergent and divergent opinions of children’s access to education, childprotection and other social services. Finally, I combine quantitative and qualitative data results using an explanatory sequential method to unveil the powers of community perception in how education plays a role in young people’s lives and ways it informs education, child protection and other social program design during ongoing violent conflict in South Sudan, and elsewhere.