By Africa Links 24
Published on 2024-01-29 18:52:20
The Uganda National Teachers Association (Unatu) has denied any involvement in a nationwide strike that was purportedly set to begin at the start of the first term. This announcement was made in response to a circulating flyer that claimed Unatu had declared a nationwide strike due to low pay.
Filbert Baguma, Unatu general secretary, clarified that the announcement did not originate from the association and urged the public and teachers to dismiss it. He emphasized the importance of relying on information from official communication channels and recognized media outlets to avoid misunderstandings.
While acknowledging the challenges faced by teachers, Baguma stated that the union is actively working to ensure that the promised salary increase is realized through negotiations with the government. Despite ongoing negotiations facilitated by the Ministry of Education, Unatu will refrain from making any pronouncements until the discussions are concluded.
The government had previously committed to implementing a three-phased salary increase for teachers, but there is no indication in the current financial year’s budget framework paper that these promises have been implemented. Ongoing negotiations are taking place, and the leadership of Unatu is expected to meet with the Minister of Education, Janet Kataha Museveni, regarding the challenges faced by teachers.
Unatu’s advocacy for salary increments for teachers has been ongoing for several years, with specific proposals for salary increases for science and arts teachers, as well as a minimum wage for primary school teachers. In 2022, a salary increase for science teachers led to dissatisfaction and a nationwide strike, eventually called off after the government committed to address the concerns of other teachers as additional funds are secured.
In summary, Unatu has distanced itself from the purported strike and is committed to negotiating with the government to address the challenges faced by teachers. The general public and teachers are advised to rely on verified information from official channels and recognized media outlets.
