Kampala– As Uganda joined the rest of the world to mark World Teachers’ Day on October 5, 2026, the National Organisation of Trade Unions (NOTU) used the occasion to celebrate educators while issuing a strong call for improved welfare and dignity for both teaching and non-teaching staff.
In a press statement issued on Monday, NOTU extended what it described as its deepest appreciation, profound respect and unwavering solidarity to all teachers and non-teaching staff across the country. The union singled out its affiliates — the Uganda National Teachers’ Union (UNATU) and the Uganda Private Teachers Union. (UPTU) — for their tireless efforts in negotiating employment terms, protecting workers’ rights and influencing broader education policy. It also recognized the National Union of Education Institutions (NUEI) and the Non-Teaching Staff Union for ensuring decent work and social justice in learning institutions, noting that without their contribution, schools would not run safely, smoothly and effectively.
NOTU described teachers and non-teaching staff as the bedrock of Uganda’s world of work, saying they shape children, build communities and lay the foundation for the country’s socio-economic transformation. The union cautioned, however, that the celebrations should not mask the difficult realities many educators face. According to the statement, education cannot be truly transformative if those entrusted with imparting knowledge continue to work under conditions of economic distress and professional uncertainty.
NOTU acknowledged government’s recent efforts to improve conditions in learning institutions, particularly pointing to the 25 percent salary increment awarded to Arts teachers and the implementation of the Public Service Pension Fund under a contributory arrangement.
Despite these gains, the union maintained that significant gaps remain and reiterated its firm position on several critical issues. On remuneration, NOTU called upon government and relevant employers to expedite commitments towards equitable salary enhancements and to ensure that payments are made on time, arguing that a motivated teacher translates directly into a thriving and competent generation of learners.
The union also raised concern over the state of infrastructure in many schools, urging immediate intervention to address deficits ranging from decent staff housing to adequate classrooms and learning materials. Such improvements, NOTU said, are essential to guaranteeing safety and dignity in the workplace.
On labour rights, NOTU said it stands shoulder-to-shoulder with teachers’ unions and other education-related unions in rejecting intimidation, ultimatums or coercive measures against educators and staff who seek redress for legitimate welfare concerns. The statement stressed that industrial harmony can only be achieved through genuine, transparent and respectful social dialogue rather than threats of dismissal.
NOTU further demanded structured and continuous professional development for teachers and non-teaching staff, insisting that training should not be treated as a one-time event but as ongoing career support and upskilling throughout their professional journeys.
In conclusion, NOTU called upon. government, employers, parents, civil society and the general public to move past rhetoric and take concrete actions to safeguard the welfare of teachers and non-teaching staff. The union emphasized that protecting educators is synonymous with protecting learners and the future of Uganda.
