Summary:
- Matata vowed to mobilize teachers across the district to strike in early January if the issue remains unresolved.
KISORO: Teachers in Kisoro District have threatened to go on strike at the start of the new academic year if the issue of delayed salaries continues.
This concern dominated discussions as educators gathered at Mubano Hotel in Kisoro Municipality to celebrate National Teachers’ Day under the theme “Valuing Teacher Voices: Towards a New Social Contract for Education.” on Saturday. The theme emphasized the importance of listening to teachers and involving them in shaping educational policies and practices.
Alex Matata, the Kisoro District UNATU Chairperson, attributed the salary delays to frequent changes in the District Custodian Office. Matata vowed to mobilize teachers across the district to strike in early January if the issue remains unresolved.
Despite compromised welfare, Matata urged teachers to remain patient, recognizing the hardship they have endured. He also raised concern over the shortage of female teachers in Kisoro District, noting that male teachers are taking on responsibilities traditionally managed by female teachers. He called on relevant authorities to address this imbalance.
CUE IN MATATA…..ON CAO…..ENG//
Kisoro Municipality Town Clerk, Alkwani Ayubu, acknowledged the efforts of teachers in shaping the nation and assured them he would work with his fellow CAOs to resolve the issues. He encouraged teachers to report their concerns in a timely manner to facilitate solutions.
CUE IN ALKWANI…..ON TEACHERS….ENG//
Kushaba Michael, OC Traffic in Kisoro, urged teachers to focus on shaping students’ discipline, emphasizing the vital role educators play in guiding children. He also called on the public to contribute to raising well-disciplined children to ensure a peaceful society.
CUE IN KUSHABA…..ON DISCIPLINE….ENG//
During the event, Bukimbiri County Member of Parliament, Hon. Eddie Kwizera, reminded the audience that Teachers’ Day is not just for celebration but for presenting resolutions to MPs, who can then raise their challenges in parliament. Kwizera also criticized the government over salary discrepancies based on subject specialization.
CUE IN KWIZERA…..ON DISCRIMINATION…..ENG//
Meanwhile, Kamara John Nizeyimana, the guest of honor, urged the District Education Officer (DEO) to avoid using teacher transfers as a form of punishment, stating that such practices do not lead to positive outcomes.
CUE IN KAMARA…..ON TRANSFERS….ENG//
