Uganda National Teachers Union Calls for Increased Funding for Teacher Education

(UNATU) has called upon the government to secure additional funding to support teachers in advancing their education. The union contends that the government's allocation of 10,000 scholarships for teachers is insufficient to meet their needs.

The government recently issued a directive requiring teachers in Uganda to raise their educational qualifications to meet the demands of the competitive teaching landscape.

During a World Teacher's Celebration at Rwenzori Square in Kasese town, UNATU's National Chairperson, Tumuhambisa Zadok, delivered a report highlighting the challenges faced by teachers. Sam Bwambale, the UNATU Chairperson for Kasese Main Branch, emphasized that the low salaries of teachers make it difficult for them to pursue further education. He urged the government to secure additional scholarship funds to facilitate their educational advancement.

Additionally, Mr. Joshua Bwambale Kiregheya, the UNATU Chairperson of the Branch Executive Committee for Kasese Municipality, stressed the importance of deploying more female teachers to remote and hilly areas of the district. This move would enhance guidance and counseling services for girl-child learners in schools.

Joseph Nzukwa, Chairperson of the Association of Secondary School Head Teachers (ASSHU) in the Rwenzori region, encouraged teachers to uphold high standards of conduct and professionalism in delivering educational content. He also emphasized the importance of cooperation among teachers, regardless of the schools they teach in.

Meanwhile, Lt. Maate Magwara, the Kasese Deputy Resident District Commissioner in Charge of Bukonzo County, expressed appreciation for the valuable contributions of teachers to the country's development. Lt. Magwara urged teachers to continue serving the nation and emphasized the importance of prioritizing their role in education over financial gain.

UNATU's call for increased funding for teacher education underscores the importance of investing in the professional development of educators to ensure a high-quality education system in Uganda.