While science headteachers celebrate their newfound financial recognition, the increase has exacerbated existing tensions within the education sector. Arts headteachers and their deputies continue to earn considerably lower salaries, leading to calls for equitable pay across all teaching disciplines. The disparity has prompted some science educators to consider demotion back to teaching roles where they could earn higher salaries.
President Museveni’s previous directives aimed at resolving these inequalities have yet to yield comprehensive solutions for all teachers. The Uganda National Teachers’ Union (UNATU) has signaled its intention to strike if arts teachers do not receive similar pay increases in the upcoming budget discussions.
As discussions around teacher compensation continue, the government faces pressure to ensure fair treatment across all educational sectors while maintaining quality education standards.