July 2, 2025
Teachers’ House, Kampala
On 2nd July 2025, the Uganda National Teachers’ Union (UNATU) held a crucial Stakeholders’ Meeting at Teachers’ House, Kampala, bringing together Human Resource Officers (HROs) and union leaders from the Central Region. The meeting aimed to enhance cooperation between HROs and UNATU leadership to address the evolving challenges faced by teachers.
Building Stronger Bonds
In his opening remarks, the Central Regional Chairperson welcomed participants, expressing appreciation for the HROs’ efforts in supporting the teaching profession. He emphasized the purpose of the meeting: to foster stronger bonds between HR departments and union leaders in the region. He highlighted persistent issues such as remittance inconsistencies and challenges arising from the IPPS to HCM system migration, calling for open dialogue and practical resolutions.
Gender and Welfare Focus
Delivering remarks on behalf of the National Chairperson, the National Secretary for Women Affairs spoke on the gender dynamics in teacher welfare, noting the rising rate of male teacher mortality. She outlined the role of the Women’s Round Table Conference (WRTC) and announced an upcoming joint delegates’ session for both male and female delegates which marks a step toward more inclusive engagement.
General Secretary’s Keynote
UNATU’s General Secretary thanked the attendees and acknowledged the disruptions caused by the transition from IPPS to HCM, which has impacted union membership and remittances. He urged HR officers to intensify sensitization efforts on the HCM system especially around loan handling, coding, and annual increments.
He also noted the emergence of splinter unions causing code confusion, and introduced UNATU’s upcoming digital membership system, currently in its final stages. This system will help streamline data management and improve tracking of member status across the country.
HR Feedback: Ground-Level Insights
During the plenary, HR officers offered rich feedback from the field:
HCM has improved operations but poses risks when teacher data security is ignored.
A need for support in validating unconfirmed teachers.
Mental health concerns among teachers are rising, highlighting the need for psychosocial support.
Some districts, such as Nakaseke, have made strides in teacher promotions and collaboration.
Forged documents and limited ICT knowledge among teachers were noted as critical concerns.
Teachers were encouraged to update their emails and protect their login credentials.
Persistent issues of abscondment and multiple loans were raised.
Praise was given to district chairpersons like that of Kyankwanzi for proactive support.
The Way Forward
In his final response, the General Secretary:
Urged teachers to safeguard their passwords, emails, and IPPS numbers.
Emphasized the need for ongoing sensitization, especially around digital tools and systems.
Called for mental health awareness and training in stress management, drug abuse, and self-care.
Highlighted UNATU’s ICT platforms, which will soon offer digital learning and support starting with union leaders.
Clarified provisions in the Teacher Policy, including those addressing demand notices, staff ceilings, and transfer of service.
The meeting closed with a renewed commitment to collaborative problem-solving and ensuring teachers receive the guidance and support they need to thrive.
