Kampala, Uganda: Secondary school art and humanities teachers across Uganda have vowed to maintain their indefinite strike, declaring not to return to classrooms until the government raises their salaries to match those of science teachers.
The teachers, under their umbrella body of Uganda Professional Humanities Teachers Union (UPHTU), accuse the government of deliberate discrimination, saying they have been sidelined despite repeated pledges of pay increases.
Francis Mutesasira, the Union’s General Secretary, while appearing on Spark TV in Kampala said that teachers had reached their breaking point after years of empty assurances and diversion of funds meant to improve their welfare.
“Arts teachers have exercised patience with the government for far too long. Today, we have made the difficult decision to put down our tools, not out of defiance, but because we deserve to be heard,” Mutesasira declared.
The salary dispute dates back to 2022 when the government implemented substantial increases for science teachers, citing the importance of science subjects in Uganda’s development. The move left arts teachers earning the same old pay, sparking resentment and repeated demands for equity.
According to Mutesasira, previous budget allocations intended to enhance arts teachers’ salaries were diverted, first to peace-building efforts and now to preparations for the 2026 elections.
“We cannot be compromised at this stage. This has become a national struggle. It’s disheartening that funds meant for us were taken elsewhere,” he said. “Arts teachers are not second-class citizens. We play a vital role in this country’s education system. Our work must be recognised and rewarded.”
Mutesasira added that no classes will resume until the Ministry of Education issues clear commitments and timelines to address the pay disparities.
Meanwhile, DailyExpress understands that the agrieved teachers are scheduled to meet President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on July 30 to formally present their demands.
“On June 30th, we will be meeting with the President, and we remain hopeful that this time, our voices will finally be heard. It’s disheartening that funds meant for us were previously diverted for peace efforts, and now they’re being redirected again for upcoming elections,” the UPHTU boss explained.
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