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The teachers are demanding a clear government position on salary harmonization and equitable treatment for all educators, regardless of discipline
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By Atukunda Olivia and Shivan Kagyete
Mbarara – Humanities and art teachers from tertiary institutions across the western region have declared an industrial action in protest of persistent salary disparities and what they describe as continued government neglect. The disgruntled educators, who say they have waited for salary enhancements since 2018, have resolved to lay down their tools, citing unfulfilled promises and worsening working conditions.
Speaking at a meeting held on Monday, June 3, 2025, at Ntale Gardens, the teachers raised concerns over financial constraints, lack of access to quality medical care, and what they termed as societal discrimination. They also condemned the growing narrative that compares science and arts subjects, arguing that it undermines the value of arts education and contributes to perceptions that their work is less important.
“We are no longer respected. Even the learners we teach are calling us useless teachers,” said Alex Koragire, Deputy General Secretary of the National Executive Committee of the Uganda Professional Humanities Teachers' Union, as he addressed the gathering.
The union announced June 6, 2025, as the official start date for their industrial action. According to union estimates, 17,169 art and humanities teachers are affected by the salary disparities across the country.
The teachers are demanding a clear government position on salary harmonization and equitable treatment for all educators, regardless of discipline.
This latest development further intensifies the ongoing tensions between educators and government authorities over unequal pay, especially between science and art teachers. The Union has called on the Ministry of Education and other relevant authorities to engage in urgent dialogue and resolve the matter before the strike date.
Torch Media Africa
