STRIKE FIRST, TEACH LATER: EDUCATION DILEMMA

UNATU chairpersons for a meeting about the strike on September 11,2025 in Kampala (Photo by Daily Monitor)

By Martin Anguyo
Arua City

Many schools in Arua City have reported a low turnout of learners on the first day of reopening for the third term of 2025. In several schools visited today, teachers were noticeably absent due to the ongoing industrial action. However, in a few institutions, classes were in full swing, with teachers actively engaging students.

This divided response has prompted the leadership of the Uganda National Teachers’ Union (UNATU) to announce plans to pursue legal action against teachers who have resumed teaching. According to union leaders, the UNION stands above any individual member, and solidarity must be maintained.

At Ediofe Boys' Primary School, 863 learners initially reported for the first day, but within a short time, they began leaving the school premises one by one. The head teacher, Victor Alioni, confirmed this development. "I told the children I have not received any official communication concerning this strike, eventually children started going out one by one shouting that teachers are for strike therefore they cannot stay without lesson," said Victor.

Gabriel Eriku, the UNATU Chairperson for Terego Branch, reassured union members in the district that they have nothing to fear and that their stand is justified. "We are safe, nothing is going to touch us even if I am arrested today, shortly I will be out of that cell, so let us avoid TELA machine and we should not even use our hard copies for writing our names there," Gabriel called.

Oyeru Mary Goreti, UNATU’s Secretary for Disputes and Welfare, echoed this sentiment, although she did not give a detailed statement." A teacher who teaches a doctor, even the president himself is paid very useless amount of money, anybody who intimidates a teacher, the union members are there and we have our lawyers who will protect and support us" said Mary Goreti.

Meanwhile, Drata Christopher, a UNATU member from Mvara Secondary School, argued that the work he does merits even higher pay than that of science teachers. "I am teaching over 150 students in geography class in A-level and that is not the only class I teach alone, I deserve more pay than somebody who is teaching three students" said Christopher.

Raymond Ombere, the Arua City Education Officer, has made a passionate appeal to both teachers and learners, though the details of his message remain to be fully shared. "I would like to call upon you out there that let us remain steady fast and commit to our duty as we help the children of this country to catchup" Raymond appealed.

UNATU insists it will not back down until the government demonstrates commitment to equitable salary enhancements with the strike like to intensify if authorities remain silent according to the leadership of the union.