Parents in Bunyangabu District have threatened to take over classroom teaching roles if members of the Uganda National Teachers’ Union (UNATU) do not call off their ongoing industrial action within three days.
In a strongly worded letter addressed to the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) and copied to the Resident District Commissioner (RDC), District Education Officer (DEO), and District Police Commander issued on Monday, the parents expressed frustration over the teachers’ strike, warning that it is disrupting learners’ preparation for the forthcoming Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE).
Led by Julius Nyikirize, the parents accused striking teachers of neglecting their professional duties at a critical time for pupils. They vowed to “fill up the teachers’ vacuum” by volunteering to teach in coordination with the RDC and DEO.
The letter further requests the Permanent Secretary to instruct the CAO to withhold salaries of teachers participating in the industrial action during the strike period. It also asks authorities to withdraw school keys and property from head teachers involved in the strike.
“Whereas it’s within the Constitution to demonstrate by laying down tools, it is not right when such action irreparably injures the work of other stakeholders,” the parents stated.
The group also urged government to fast-track discussions to address teachers’ grievances but insisted that lessons must continue to protect learners’ academic progress.
UNATU teachers recently declared industrial action over salary disparities and delayed implementation of the government’s pay enhancement plan.
However, parents in Bunyangabu insist that continued absence from class is unacceptable as exams draw closer.
The Source Reports.
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