Teachers across Uganda have defied a government ultimatum to return to class, choosing instead to continue their nationwide strike over salary disparities and delayed pay adjustments.
The strike, led by the Uganda National Teachers’ Union (UNATU), entered a new phase after the government’s deadline for teachers to resume work expired on Friday. Educators insist they will not return to classrooms until the Ministry of Public Service addresses their concerns about pay equity between arts and science teachers.
UNATU Secretary General Filbert Baguma said teachers are tired of empty promises and unfair treatment. “We have been patient for too long. The government must treat all teachers equally and fulfill its commitment to improve our salaries,” he stated.
The Ministry of Education had earlier warned that teachers who fail to report to duty risk disciplinary action, but union leaders dismissed the threats, calling them intimidation tactics.
The ongoing strike has disrupted learning in several districts, with schools reporting low attendance and halted lessons. Analysts warn that the stalemate could worsen the education sector’s recovery from the effects of COVID-19 and prolonged funding gaps.
