Kibuku, (UG):- On Saturday, October 5, 2024, Kibuku District came alive with vibrant celebrations for World Teachers’ Day, drawing a diverse crowd of community leaders and educators.
Among the notable attendees were the District LC V Chairperson, Hon. Hajji Muhammed Nakeba, the District Speaker, the Deputy RDC, Mulindwa Matiya Kagugube, area Member of Parliament, the District Inspector of Schools, the District Education Officer, human resource officers, and representatives from the Chief Administrative Officer’s office, among others. The event underscored the crucial role that educators play in shaping future generations.
The celebrations commenced with an inspiring speech by Union Chairperson Kyaide Samuel, who emphasized the theme, “Valuing Teacher Voices towards the New Social Contract for Education.” He opened his address with a solemn acknowledgement of the late Namukose Faridah from Kadama Primary School, reflecting the collective grief of the community while honouring the contributions of those who have passed.
Kyaide highlighted pressing issues affecting teachers, including the importance of preparing for retirement early, understanding the types of leave available, and the necessity of financial responsibility. He urged teachers to avoid multiple loans and the mortgaging of their certificates, stressing that these decisions could lead to long-term hardships.
The Union Chairperson also reminded educators of the importance of seeking permission when absent from school, promoting professionalism within the teaching community.
As part of the celebrations, Kabweri Primary School was awarded a trophy for outperforming other government-aided primary schools in the 2023 Primary Leaving Examinations. This achievement marked a significant moment, as the trophy had previously been held by Kasasira Primary School.
Additionally, Nandere Secondary School received a trophy for excelling among the seven government-aided secondary schools in the recent UCE Examinations, successfully maintaining their title and the trophy.
The District Inspector of Schools, Nabirye Leticia, expressed her gratitude for the gift of life, especially after her recent interdiction. In her heartfelt message, she encouraged teachers to continue their vital work for the children of Kibuku, emphasizing that their efforts are foundational for the district’s future.
Nabirye reminded her audience that while exits from their positions may be forced, preparing for such transitions is crucial to avoid hardship.
Echoing her sentiments, the District Education Officer, Wamika Christopher, congratulated the teachers for reaching this significant day. He addressed the challenges faced by educators, questioning why their concerns often go unheard.
Wamika called for unity among teachers, asserting that solidarity is essential for addressing their issues within the government. He urged the Members of Parliament present to advocate for teachers’ needs, stating that educators should not be treated as mere stepping stones in the political landscape.
The Deputy Resident District Commissioner, Mulindwa Matiya Kagugube, emphasized the importance of a functional teachers’ organization to amplify their collective voice. He encouraged teachers to set aside individual differences and focus on their shared mission of educating the youth. Kagugube also announced initiatives to improve educational resources in the district, including the provision of revision materials.
Honourable Kinobere Herbert, the Kibuku Constituency Member of Parliament and NRM Deputy Chief Whip, celebrated the dedication of teachers while urging them to resist corruption. He reaffirmed his commitment to advocate for improvements in teachers’ salaries, a pressing issue that resonates across the nation.
The event culminated with a speech from the Chief Guest, Hon. Hajji Muhammed Nakeba, the District LC V Chairperson. He congratulated the teachers on reaching their special day and expressed his appreciation for their hard work, stating, “Teachers are the backbone of our society; your efforts today will shape the leaders of tomorrow.”
He also gave a directive to the human resource officers to ensure that all teachers meet the necessary standards for their payments. Furthermore, he urged them to stop charging fees for loan processing, a practice that had burdened many educators.
Following his address, the Chief Administrative Officer’s representative, Mugulusi Charles, informed teachers about the transition from the Integrated Payroll and Personnel System (IPPS) to Human Capital Management (HCM), set to take effect in October in order to streamline administrative processes, further supporting the educators’ efforts.
Hon. Majanga Augustine Moleka, the Secretary for Education, reminded those who could not attend the celebrations of the significance of World Teachers’ Day. He urged Hon. Kinobere to be the voice of teachers in Parliament, highlighting the transformative potential of increased salaries for educators.
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