The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among, has appealed to striking teachers to reconsider their industrial action and return to work as the government continues efforts to resolve their grievances.
The Speaker made the plea while receiving a petition from the Uganda National Teachers’ Union (UNATU), whose members have raised concerns over the glaring salary disparity between science and arts teachers. According to the petitioners, science teachers currently earn approximately UGX 4 million per month, while their counterparts in the arts disciplines take home roughly UGX 800,000—despite teaching the same classes.
The striking teachers argue that the wage gap is unjust and demoralizing, affecting morale and retention in the profession. UNATU representatives emphasized that the disparity undermines the value of arts educators and creates division within the education sector.
In response, Speaker Among assured the teachers that Parliament remains committed to engaging the government to find a lasting solution to the issue. She acknowledged the long-standing nature of the salary discrepancies and pledged to push for fairness and equity in teachers' remuneration.
"The concerns of our teachers are valid, and we understand their frustration. However, I urge them to return to the classroom as we work with the government to address this matter," Among stated. "We are committed to ensuring that all educators receive fair compensation for their invaluable contribution to national development."
The strike, which has disrupted learning in several schools across the country, has drawn mixed reactions from parents and policymakers. While some support the teachers' demands, others worry about the prolonged impact on students' education.
Government officials have previously acknowledged the pay disparity but cited budgetary constraints as a major challenge in harmonizing salaries. However, pressure is mounting for a swift resolution, with lawmakers expected to prioritize the issue in upcoming parliamentary discussions.
As negotiations continue, the Speaker’s appeal underscores the need for dialogue while emphasizing the importance of keeping schools operational. Teachers, however, remain wary, insisting that only concrete action—not promises—will end the strike.
For now, the nation watches closely as the government and educators seek common ground in a dispute that strikes at the heart of Uganda’s education system.
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