As thousands of learners across Uganda sit for the Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) examinations, deep-rooted inequalities in the education system are once again under the spotlight. The prolonged strike by arts teachers in government-aided schools has left many students underprepared, exposing the long-standing salary disparity between science and arts educators.
Bukimbiri County MP, Hon. Eddie Kwizera Wagahungu, has warned that the ongoing examinations risk being unfairly skewed in favor of students in private schools and those in government schools whose teachers remained on duty.
Speaking at a press briefing in Kisoro Municipality on Monday, Hon. Kwizera questioned the credibility of the examination process under such circumstances.
“How do we expect students to perform well when they have spent most of the term without teachers? Government must treat teachers’ concerns not as complaints but as legitimate demands for fairness,” he said.
He argued that unequal remuneration between science and arts teachers undermines staff morale, disrupts learning continuity, and ultimately compromises national development goals.
CUE IN KWIZERA…..ON SALARIES……RR/ENG//
He further noted that private schools continued teaching uninterrupted, widening the gap between privileged and under-resourced learners. He warned that unless government intervenes, national examinations may increasingly reflect inequality rather than academic ability.
“If government schools remain at a disadvantage, should results be evaluated differently? Will we need affirmative action?” he asked.
The legislator urged the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Public Service to initiate a comprehensive review of the salary structure for teachers and other civil servants to restore equity and motivation.
“Teachers should earn enough not just to survive, but to save and live with dignity,” he emphasized.
He pledged to push the matter to the floor of Parliament once sittings resume.
CUE IN KWIZERA….ON INDEPENDENCY…..RR/ENG//
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