Arts teachers in Kisoro District, under their umbrella body, the Professional Human Teachers Union (UPHTU) have laid down their tools in protest, demanding salary enhancements and equal treatment with their science counterparts.
On Monday, the educators took to the streets carrying placards bearing messages such as “Arts teachers also matter,” “No money, no class,” and “Humanities remuneration is a national concern.” Their peaceful demonstration highlighted longstanding salary disparities introduced by the government’s 2022 decision to increase pay exclusively for science teachers.
According to the current salary structure, science teachers with degrees earn about Shs 4 million monthly, while diploma holders receive approximately Shs 2.5 million. Meanwhile, arts and humanities teachers continue to earn between Shs 700,000 and Shs 1 million.
Janasan Habumugisha, Chairperson of the Uganda Professional Teachers’ Union, expressed deep frustration over the government’s continued silence on the matter.
CUE IN HABUMUGISHA……ON SALARY DISCRIMINATION……ENG//
Mwanvaneza Richard, a mobilizer with the Uganda Professional Humanities Teachers’ Union, said the strike would persist until their concerns are addressed.
CUE IN MWANVANEZA……..ON GOVERNMENT……..ENG//
Kampire Repreranser, a Christian Religious Education teacher, emphasized the strain low salaries place on families, particularly for women juggling teaching and caregiving responsibilities.
CUE IN KAMPIRE……..ON SALARY ENHANCEMENT…….ENG//
Other protesting teachers echoed similar concerns, pointing out that the issue has remained unresolved for over three years. They questioned why Parliament has yet to prioritize equitable remuneration for all educators.
CUE IN TEACHERS…….ON MATTER VOXPOP…….RR//
