Today marked the official launch of the Teaching Together 2025 Planning Meeting, held at the UNATU Secretariat in Kampala. This two-day engagement (10th–11th July) brings together 8 Canadian and 8 Ugandan co-tutors to collaboratively prepare for the upcoming Teacher training sessions set to begin on July 14 in the Western and Busoga regions of Uganda.
The Teaching Together Program, formerly known as INSET, is a long-standing partnership between the Uganda National Teachers’ Union (UNATU) and the Canadian Teachers’ Federation (CTF). This year’s program will benefit 200 educators from the districts of Bugiri, Mayuge, Kitagwenda and Bundibugyo with training venues set at Bishop Willis Teacher Training Institution (TTI) in Iganga and Canon Apollo Teacher Training Institution (TTI) in Kabarole. Participants will include headteachers and lower primary teachers, with 50 educators trained per week.
Speaking during the opening session, UNATU General Secretary Baguma Filbert Bates reflected on the evolution of this professional development journey, thanking the CTF for their enduring support and commending the Ugandan co-tutors for their commitment to the program. “Teaching Together has just begun and you are its pioneers,” he said. He emphasized the program’s dual focus on pedagogy and social impact, noting gender equity and unionisation as essential themes embedded in this year’s content.
The program’s official launch was led by UNATU National Chairperson, Mr. Zadock Tumuhimbise, who expressed deep appreciation to the host institutions and the CTF team for their unwavering commitment to teacher empowerment. Drawing attention to the findings of the 2024 Uwezo Uganda Learning Assessment, Mr. Tumuhimbise noted stagnating learning outcomes as a call to action. He reiterated the importance of well-structured Continuous Professional Development (CPD) in reversing this trend. “The Teaching Together program is a vital space for retooling teachers with modern strategies, tools, and renewed energy,” he remarked.
Representing the Ministry of Education and Sports, Commissioner Mugisha Annet Kajura, Ag. Commissioner Teacher Education and Training Department (TETD), emphasised the vital and transformative role of teachers in the life of a child. She celebrated the program’s emphasis on gender equality, ICT, and classroom leadership, and called for the continued engagement of more women in digital spaces. “Be empowered from the heart,” she urged participants. “Unlearn, relearn, and grow as professionals committed to equity and excellence.”
The Canadian Teachers’ Federation was represented by a passionate team of educators, with Team Leaders Nadia and Melissa expressing CTF’s pride in working with UNATU. “We’re honoured that this partnership is named “Teaching Together” because that’s exactly what it is,” she said. they highlighted the importance of inspiring both boys and girls through this initiative and encouraged everyone to “learn together and grow together, never taking any day for granted.” She also thanked UNATU for their coordination and commitment to shared goals.
Several members of UNATU’s National Executive made welcoming remarks. National Secretary for Planning and Organising, Adia Grace, expressed gratitude to the CTF delegation and wished them success at their respective training venues. National Treasurer John Ssali emphasized collaboration and mutual support, highlighting the shared mission to uplift Uganda’s education sector.
The principal and Deputy of Bishop Willis and Canon Apollo TTI respectively also gave remarks looking forward to the expereience and hoping for a good stay of the Canadian team with lots to exchange
As the planning phase officially kicks off, the Teaching Together Program reaffirms its goals: to foster modern instructional strategies, promote inclusive classrooms, support continuous learning, and strengthen the role of educators as agents of change.
The program will run from 14th to 25th July 2025, with participants receiving certificates jointly endorsed by UNATU and CTF in recognition of their commitment to professional development.
