President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has promised public school teachers across Uganda that the government remains committed to enhancing their salaries, but the increase will be implemented in phases.
Speaking at the World Teachers’ Day celebrations held at Lugogo Cricket Oval in Kampala on Saturday, October 19, 2024, the president emphasized the government’s intention to improve the welfare of all public servants, including teachers. He was addressing the constraints in hiring enough educators to meet the country’s growing demands.
“Our intention is very clear. The economy is growing, and inflation is low. Our target is to pay all public servants well but also increase the number of public servants,” President Museveni said.
He noted that Uganda’s education system currently faces a shortfall of teachers, with 15 million students in need of education but insufficient resources to hire the estimated 300,000 teachers required.
According to the president, public school teachers in Uganda have long faced inadequate salaries, with primary school teachers earning as little as UGX 469,355 per month, which falls far short of meeting the rising cost of living.
The President also fulfilled his pledge of UGX 20 billion to support teachers’ SACCOs across the country. He signed the cheque, hence marking a significant step in enhancing financial support for educators.
At the event, themed Valuing Teachers’ Voices Towards a New Social Contract for Education, the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Janet Museveni, acknowledged the frustration of teachers awaiting salary increases.
During celebrations, two exceptional teachers from different regions were honored for their outstanding service and dedication to education. Their recognition underscores the vital role of educators in shaping the future and highlights their extraordinary contributions to their communities.
The president’s remarks come as a result of a high dropout rate within the teaching profession, where many educators continue to struggle with low pay. The issue was also exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw many private school teachers left without income, further highlighting the precarious financial situation of educators across the country.