President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has assured public school teachers that the government is dedicated to improving their salaries, though the process will be gradual.
Speaking during World Teachers’ Day celebrations at Lugogo Cricket Oval in Kampala on Saturday, Museveni highlighted the government’s efforts to uplift the welfare of public servants, including teachers, while addressing the staffing challenges facing Uganda’s education sector.
Museveni acknowledged the shortage of educators, noting that while the country has 15 million students, an additional 300,000 teachers are needed to meet the demand. He emphasized that the government’s economic progress and low inflation offer a foundation for future salary improvements.
“The economy is growing, and inflation is low. We aim to pay public servants better and hire more of them to meet the needs of our population,” Museveni stated.
The president’s comments come amid widespread dissatisfaction within the teaching profession, where low salaries have long been a concern. Currently, primary school teachers earn as little as Shs 469,355 (around USD 125) per month, far below the cost of living.
This financial strain was intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic, which left many private school teachers without income, underscoring the precarious economic situation for educators.
First Lady and Minister of Education Janet Museveni, also in attendance, acknowledged the frustrations of teachers but urged patience, explaining that limited resources must be managed carefully to ensure meaningful salary increments.
“We cannot spread the little money available too thinly, or it will make no real difference. We are working to improve everyone’s welfare, but it will happen step by step,” she said.
The government has faced criticism for focusing on salary increases for science teachers, leaving arts and primary teachers waiting. This disparity has led to tensions and strikes within the education sector. However, the government insists that all teachers will benefit as Uganda’s economy improves.
President Museveni defended the prioritization of science teachers, explaining that their skills are essential to advancing Uganda’s economy through industrialization and knowledge-based development. He added that the government’s broader goal has been to provide mass education, leading to an increase in the literacy rate from 43% to 76%.
“We prioritize mass education, mass immunization, and security for all to ensure peace across the country. Despite the challenges, our strategies have empowered the population,” Museveni said.
During the event, the President fulfilled his pledge of Shs 20 billion to support three National Teachers Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (SACCOs), a promise made during last year’s World Teachers’ Day celebrations.
The funds are expected to provide financial support, particularly to teachers in rural areas with limited access to affordable credit.
Despite this financial aid, the challenge of fair and adequate compensation for teachers remains central to Uganda’s education reforms.
