The Uganda Professional Science Teachers’ Union (UPSTU) joins the global community in commemorating International Women’s Day 2026, a day dedicated to celebrating the achievements of women while reflecting on the work that remains to achieve true gender equality.
This year’s celebration is guided by the national theme: “Scaling Up Investment to Accelerate Access to Justice for All Women and Girls in Uganda,” and the global campaign theme: “Give to Gain.” These themes remind us that progress toward gender equality requires both deliberate investment and collective generosity of action—from governments, institutions, communities, and individuals.
As science educators dedicated to fostering knowledge, innovation, and national development, we recognize that true progress in education and STEM cannot be achieved without equitable rights and justice for all. Women and girls in science still face systemic barriers—ranging from limited access to resources and professional development opportunities, to gender-based discrimination in classrooms, leadership spaces, and workplaces. These challenges undermine not only the potential of women and girls, but also the collective capacity of our country to build a scientifically literate and innovative society.
At UPSTU, we believe that empowering women educators is central to transforming science education in Uganda. Female science teachers play a vital role as mentors, role models, and leaders who inspire the next generation of girls to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). When women thrive in science education, the entire education system benefits.
Through our Gender committee, UPSTU remains committed to advocating for policies and programs that ensure women’s rights are not only recognized but actively defended, promoted, and enforced. Our efforts focus on promoting fair representation of women in science teaching roles, strengthening mentorship programs for female educators and learners, and addressing biases in teaching and learning environments so that girls are encouraged to explore science with confidence and ambition.
We also call upon our members, government stakeholders, and development partners to take concrete and practical steps to advance gender equality in education. This includes investing in gender-sensitive teacher training, supporting legal and institutional reforms that guarantee equal opportunities and fair pay, and amplifying the voices of women in STEM who are already making transformative contributions to our schools, communities, and nation.
In the spirit of the global call to “Give to Gain,” we are reminded that progress is a shared responsibility. When we give mentorship, knowledge, resources, and platforms to women and girls, we gain stronger institutions, more innovative classrooms, and a more inclusive and prosperous society. Gender equality is therefore not only a matter of justice—it is a strategic investment in the future of Uganda.
This year, UPSTU is marking International Women’s Day through the UPSTU Annual Women’s Conference held on 6th–7th March 2026 at Nob View Hotel in Ntinda, bringing together women leaders, educators, policymakers, and partners to reflect on progress and identify practical solutions for advancing gender equality in science education.
The conference program features discussions on the national theme of access to justice for women and girls, as well as sessions on mentorship for empowering female learners and the role of ICT in advancing empowerment, professional growth, and digital safety for women educators.
These engagements provide a platform for sharing experiences, strengthening networks, and developing strategies that empower female educators and inspire girls to pursue science and leadership roles.
As we celebrate this important day, we reaffirm our commitment as a union to building an education system where every woman and girl can learn, lead, innovate, and thrive without barriers.
Together, let us transform commitments into action.
Together, let us turn rights into reality.
Together, let us empower women and girls to shape the future of science and education in Uganda.
Happy International Women’s Day 2026.