Uganda's education sector is facing a significant disruption due to the ongoing teachers' strike, led by the Uganda National Teachers' Union (UNATU) and the Uganda Professional Humanities Teachers Union (UPHTU).The strike, which began on September 15, 2025, aims to address salary disparities between arts and science teachers.

Background.

The strike is believed to be a result of the government's failure to address the pay gap between arts and science teachers. Arts teachers argue that they are unfairly treated, earning significantly less than their science counterparts. For instance, an arts teacher with a degree qualification earns a gross pay of Shs 1,078,162 Ugx monthly, while a science teacher with similar qualifications earns Shs 4 million Ugx.

The impact on students.

The strike has already shown its impact on students, particularly those in government schools. Many learners are staying away from school, and those who attend are not receiving adequate instruction. This disruption comes at a critical time, just before national examinations and promotions to the next class.

Low Student Attendance:Reports from Northern Uganda region District's indicate that student attendance has been significantly low, with many classrooms remaining empty.

Disrupted Learning:The strike has disrupted the academic calendar, potentially affecting syllabus coverage and student preparedness for exams,where by concerned School administrators are worried about the prolonged industrial action, which could compromise students' academic progress.

Government Response.

The government has proposed a phased salary enhancement plan, which includes two options:

1-Four-Year Phased Increment: Starting in the 2026/27 financial year, requiring Shs 363.7 billion annually.

2-Three-Year Plan:Beginning with a 50% raise in year one, costing Shs 727.4 billion Ugx.

My encouragement for Teachers is that while the teachers demands are legitimate, it's essential to consider the negative outcome on students and pupils.The strike's timing, during the third term, is particularly unfortunate, as it may impact students' performance in national examinations.

a)Dialogue and Negotiation: Teachers and the government should engage in constructive dialogue to find a mutually beneficial solution.

b)Student-Centric Approach: The interests of students should be prioritized, ensuring minimal disruption to their learning and academic progress preparation.

c)Fair Treatment:The government should strive to address the pay disparities and provide fair treatment to all teachers, regardless of their subject area.

In conclusion, the teachers' strike in Uganda 2025 highlights the need for fair treatment and equitable compensation for educators. While the strike aims to address legitimate concerns, it's crucial to consider the impact on students and find a solution that benefits all parties involved.

By: KUMAKECH SAM-KUSAJA Social policy analyst.