Lira, Uganda – June 22, 2025
The Chairperson of the Uganda Professional Humanities Teachers’ Union (UPHTU), Ms. Teopista Akello, has issued a bold call to humanities teachers across the Lango sub-region, urging them not to relent in their ongoing industrial action demanding salary enhancement.
Speaking at a well-attended regional meeting of humanities teachers, Ms. Akello emphasized that the struggle has reached its final stages and encouraged teachers to remain united and unwavering.
“Let us not get tired now — we are left with just one step. Parliament will handle the next phase, and the final one will involve the Head of State,” Akello told the teachers. “We are clear. No going back to class without salary enhancement.”
She also noted that the effects of the strike are now being felt by parents and learners, a sign, she said, that their message is getting through. Akello urged all unregistered humanities teachers to urgently join the union to strengthen the collective cause.
During the same meeting, the Lango region humanities teachers unanimously passed four resolutions, with the key resolution being a refusal to return to classrooms until their salaries are enhanced.
Mr. Robert Apita, General Secretary for UPHTU in the Lango sub-region, reiterated the teachers’ position.
“We have resolved not to go back to work. And if the government wants to hold any meeting, at least representatives of humanities teachers from all the 16 sub-regions must be involved,” Apita said.
Adding a legal perspective, Ms. Winnifred Joy Okello, the Legal Advisor to the UPHTU National Executive Committee, called on teachers to remain calm and firm.
“Do not be intimidated. No one should threaten you. The law is on your side as you demand what is just,” she stated.
The industrial action by humanities teachers continues to disrupt learning in many government schools nationwide, with growing support from civil society and the public. The union insists that equal pay for humanities and science teachers is a matter of justice and dignity, and they will not be silenced until the government listens.
