This week, national media has spotlighted two developments for science teachers teacher unions, showcasing significant strides in the professional and financial welfare of educators across Uganda.
The government has delivered UGX 20 billion to teachers’ Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (SACCOs), fulfilling a long-standing commitment to support the financial stability of educators. In addition, the salaries for science headteachers and their deputies have been significantly enhanced, addressing disparities and promoting leadership in schools. These milestones underscore the importance of unified efforts and steadfast dedication to advancing the interests of science teachers and education as a whole.
At UPSTU, we are particularly delighted to share these monumental achievements with our members and the education fraternity at large. These developments are the fruits of persistent advocacy, tireless follow-ups, and collaborative engagements with stakeholders at various levels of governance. As a union dedicated to improving the welfare of science teachers, we are thrilled to witness these impactful strides that bring tangible benefits to our members and reinforce the value of our profession.
In this post, we highlight the details of these achievements as reported in the media this week.
1. Science Headteachers and Deputies Receive Salary Enhancements
A key highlight in the news was the government’s announcement of salary enhancements for science headteachers and their deputies. The move, detailed on page 3 of The New Vision – Tuesday 26th November 2024, confirms an increment from UGX 3.2M to UGX 6.5M for science headteachers, while their deputies’ salaries have risen from UGX 1.7M to UGX 4.5M. This adjustment is expected to bring long-overdue equity in the pay structure and motivate science teachers to take up leadership roles in schools.
The story also delves into the pivotal role played by the Uganda Professional Science Teachers’ Union (UPSTU) in advocating for these enhancements. Vincent Elong, the UPSTU National Chairperson, expressed gratitude for the government’s response, acknowledging the union’s persistent efforts in addressing salary disparities. Elong reiterated that this victory signifies progress in improving working conditions for educators and urged teachers to seize these leadership opportunities to foster institutional growth and academic excellence.
This development is being hailed as a welcome move to address the longstanding challenges faced by science educators, particularly the lack of incentive to step into administrative roles. It also underscores the government’s commitment to elevating the status of teachers and administrators in the education sector.
2. Government Delivers UGX 20 Billion to Teachers’ SACCOs
In another report, the government has fulfilled its pledge to disburse UGX 20 billion to teachers’ Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (SACCOs). Published in The New Vision 25th Nov 2024, the report outlines the distribution of these funds across three major unions: the Uganda Professional Science Teachers’ Union (UPSTU), the Uganda Private Teachers’ Union (UPTU), and the Uganda Liberal Teachers’ Union (ULTU). Each SACCO has received UGX 6.6 billion, marking a major milestone in the financial empowerment of teachers.
After President Yoweri Museveni and the First Lady, Janet Kataaha Museveni, handed over a symbolic cheque during the World Teachers’ Day celebrations, the funds have been processed and duly deposited on the bank accounts of each of the three SACCOs . The funds aim to enhance financial independence among teachers, providing them with access to affordable credit facilities for personal and professional development. However, conditions for accessing these funds have been established to ensure sustainability and effective utilization. Teachers must meet criteria such as maintaining a an active account with their SACCOs and among other requirements set by each of the SACCOs.
UPSTU Chairperson Vincent Elong applauded this development, emphasizing its potential to alleviate financial constraints for teachers. He highlighted that this initiative aligns with the broader agenda of professionalizing and empowering educators to create a robust and sustainable future for the teaching fraternity.
This week’s media coverage underscores the tangible results of advocacy, collaboration, and commitment between unions and the government. The salary increments for science headteachers and deputies and the disbursement of SACCO funds are transformative milestones that demonstrate the growing recognition of teachers’ contributions to nation-building.
As UPSTU continues to champion the interests of science teachers, these developments serve as a testament to the union’s dedication to improving the welfare and professional standing of its members. Teachers and administrators are encouraged to leverage these opportunities to enhance their careers and drive positive change in the education sector.
Also read / watch: Empowering Science Teachers to Step into School Leadership Roles – ProDev Hour 21/11/24
Stay tuned for more updates as UPSTU remains at the forefront of advocating for the professional and financial empowerment of science educators in Uganda.