Science teachers demand recruitment, fair treatment on World Teachers’ Day

What the report says

Science teachers in Uganda, speaking through the Uganda Professional Science Teachers’ Union (UPSTU), used World Teachers’ Day on October 5 to call for more recruitment, improved welfare and stronger consultation on education policy. The remarks were made at a press conference at the union’s new offices in Makerere, where the teachers said staffing shortages are making it harder for schools to deliver quality lessons, especially in science subjects.

According to Nile Post, UPSTU leaders said the shortfall in teachers is increasing workloads and affecting learning in both primary and secondary schools. They urged government to recruit more teachers, improve working conditions and involve teachers before introducing reforms. The union also said accommodation for teachers in remote areas would help reduce lateness and absenteeism, and called for a fair system to recognise and promote teachers based on their contribution.

The teachers also raised concern about how some educators are treated during corruption investigations in schools, saying anti-corruption efforts should follow due process and protect teachers’ dignity. UPSTU National Chairperson Dr Vincent Elong said teachers should not be arrested or humiliated before investigations are completed.

The union further questioned government plans to consolidate teacher education under the Uganda National Institute of Teacher Education, or UNITE, saying stakeholders should be consulted before the reforms are implemented. It also welcomed salary improvements for arts and humanities teachers and thanked President Yoweri Museveni for support to teachers’ SACCOs, which the union said has helped improve members’ financial welfare.