KAMPALA, UGANDA – President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has announced plans to increase salaries for Uganda’s public teachers in phases, citing the country’s growing economy and low inflation.
Speaking at the belated World Teachers Day celebrations in Kampala, President Museveni acknowledged the challenges faced by teachers and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to improving their welfare.
“We started with science teachers, but arts teachers will also be considered,” President Museveni said. “Our target is to pay all public servants well, but we must prioritize.”
Uganda’s education sector has faced significant challenges, including teacher shortages and inadequate resources. The country requires approximately 300,000 teachers to cater to its 15 million students.
However, President Museveni highlighted the progress made in improving Uganda’s literacy rate, which has risen from 43% to 76%.
“Those who were laughing at our strategy now see the results,” he said. “Everything we do is mass because we try to empower everybody; mass education, mass immunization, security for all to bring peace to the whole country.”
Government Support for Teachers
As part of efforts to support teachers, President Museveni fulfilled his pledge of 20 billion Ugandan shillings (approximately $5.5 million) to the National Teachers Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (SACCOs).
This initiative aims to provide financial support to teachers, particularly in rural areas where access to affordable credit is limited.
Education Sector Reforms
The Ugandan government is working to professionalize teaching through the National Teacher Policy (2019) and the upcoming National Teacher Bill (2024).
Maama Janet Museveni, Minister of Education and Sports, acknowledged resource constraints delaying equal pay rises but reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving teachers’ welfare.
“Teachers are the backbone of our education system,” she said. “We recognize their dedication and sacrifices.”
Global Teaching Profession Crisis
UNESCO’s representative, Mr. Sow Mamadou Lamine, highlighted the global teaching profession crisis, citing low pay, excessive workloads, and inadequate resources.
“Restoring trust in the teaching profession requires empowering educators in decision-making,” Mr. Lamine said.
Recognizing Exceptional Teachers
As part of the celebrations, Vision Group awarded 12 outstanding teachers with cash prizes and professional development opportunities in Ireland.
Mr. Moses Echweru was named the overall winner for his extraordinary contributions to education.
The event was attended by government officials, diplomatic missions, and education stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of teachers in Uganda’s socio-economic transformation.
