Uganda Professional Science Teachers' Union – UPSTU

UPSTU Regional Offices and other updates regarding our efforts as a union

Dear Esteemed Members and Supporters,

I hope this message finds you well. It is with great pleasure that I share some critical updates and developments regarding our ongoing efforts to support science teachers and advance education in Uganda. Our mission at the Uganda Professional Science Teachers’ Union (UPSTU) has always been to champion the welfare and professional growth of science teachers across the nation. Here, I will delve into these updates personally and underscore our unwavering commitment to you, our valued members, and to the broader education sector.

1. Establishing Regional Offices: Bringing Services Closer to You

I’m thrilled to announce a significant milestone in our journey: the establishment of ten branch offices or regional offices across various subregions in Uganda. These include Masaka, Kampala, Bugisu, Sebei, Busoga, Ankole, Lango, West Nile, Rwenzori, and Kigezi. This strategic expansion is driven by our deep commitment to bring UPSTU’s services closer to our members. We believe that every science teacher, regardless of their location, should have direct access to the support, resources, and advocacy that UPSTU provides.

2. Following Up on the July 2023 Presidential Directive HTrs and DHTrs Salary Scale

Another vital update pertains to our relentless advocacy for the implementation of the Science Salary Scale for Head Teachers (HTrs) and Deputy Head Teachers (DHTrs) who are scientists, as directed by the President in July 2023. We have been actively involved in pushing for this directive’s full realization. While discussions are ongoing, I want to reassure you that UPSTU is working tirelessly to ensure that this matter is resolved as swiftly as possible. Your welfare remains our utmost priority.

3. Ensuring Fair Pay for Science Tutors: No Scientist Should be Left Behind

Our unwavering commitment to securing fair compensation for science tutors continues. While significant progress has been made in adjusting the salaries of some subjects, we remain concerned about our members, such as Home Economics tutors, who have yet to see their pay corrected accordingly. We firmly assert that these tutors are indeed scientists, a recognition shared by the Ministry of Education and Sports in the CSI No. 2 of 2015. Our pledge to you is that we will persistently engage with the government to ensure that no scientist is left behind, and that all receive just compensation.

4. Addressing the Concerns of ICT Teachers: Science Salary Scale

Our advocacy extends to addressing the concerns of ICT teachers who are not on the Science Salary Scale because of having an art subject alongside ICT. We are actively engaged with the government to seek a resolution. We are optimistic that, in due course, a fair and equitable solution will be reached. Our commitment to securing the rights and fair treatment of all science teachers, including ICT educators, remains unshaken.

5. Thriving UPSTU Members’ SACCO: A Source of Collective Economic Empowerment

I’d like to take a moment to commend the thriving UPSTU Members’ Savings and Credit Cooperative Society (SACCO). Our SACCO leadership has been doing an outstanding job, and we are grateful for their dedication. I want to emphasize the importance of all science teachers joining this mighty SACCO. Your membership not only empowers you individually but also contributes to our collective economic strength.

6. Defeating Negativity and False Propaganda: A Call to Serve with Diligence

I must address the unfortunate spread of misleading information in the media. Reports suggesting that science teachers are leaving the profession due to enhanced salaries are, in our view, attempts to tarnish our image and commitment to education. Be assured that we are actively investigating the source of this negativity and its underlying intentions. We will respond appropriately. For now, I urge all science teachers to remain steadfast in their duties and continue serving our nation with diligence and unwavering dedication.

In conclusion, I want to reaffirm our commitment to promoting excellence in education. Together, with your unwavering support, UPSTU is making strides toward a brighter future for science teachers and, by extension, for the nation as a whole. Your dedication to the profession and your students is truly commendable, and we are here to ensure that your efforts are recognized and rewarded.

Thank you for your continued trust in UPSTU. Together, we will continue to inspire, empower, and illuminate the path to a brighter tomorrow for science education in Uganda.

With warm regards,

Mugaiga Aron

General Secretary

Uganda Professional Science Teachers’ Union (UPSTU)

October 30, 2023

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