Mbale City, 18th June 2026 – Membership growth, teacher wellbeing and retirement planning took centre stage as the Uganda National Teachers’ Union (UNATU) Eastern Region convened its annual Regional Stakeholders’ Meeting at Elgon Palace Hotel in Mbale City.
The meeting brought together strategic stakeholders, the Eastern Regional Chairperson, the Regional Executive Committee, Branch Chairpersons, the Regional Coordinator and the General Secretary to reflect on progress made, confront emerging challenges and identify practical ways of improving service delivery to teachers across the region.
Strengthening Regional Coordination and Membership Engagement
In his welcome remarks, the Eastern Regional Chairperson, Barassa Samuel applauded Branch Chairpersons for their commitment to supporting the Union’s work and consistently submitting schedules. He encouraged them to maintain open communication and continue sharing information that can help the region respond effectively to members’ needs.
He stressed that the Union’s strength lies in teamwork, timely communication and leaders’ willingness to report challenges before they escalate.
“Even where there are issues, inform us. We shall go far with your help,” he said.
He also commended the General Secretary and the Regional Coordinator for their dedication to serving members in the region and wished participants productive discussions.
Eastern Region Membership Grows
One of the meeting’s highlights was the announcement that UNATU Eastern Region’s membership had grown to 12105 members. However, there is more work to be done.
The Regional Coordinator attributed this progress to the efforts of Branch Chairpersons and strategic stakeholders who continue to mobilise and engage teachers across the region. He thanked participants for honouring the invitation and reaffirmed the importance of collaboration in sustaining the Union’s growth.
General Secretary Calls for Vigilance on Membership
The General Secretary invited participants to openly discuss the realities affecting membership in their branches.
The discussions revealed recurring concerns, including the need for continuous member engagement, delays in communication on issues affecting teachers, and technical challenges that sometimes result in members dropping off the check-off system. Participants also noted that promotions and transfers can unintentionally disrupt membership status when follow-up is delayed.
In response, the General Secretary urged Branch Chairpersons to remain alert and proactive.
He encouraged leaders to sensitise members about the full range of UNATU services and benefits, reminding them that the Union’s value extends beyond death benefits and corporate wear.
Members were also encouraged to visit the UNATU website for more information on membership benefits: https://unatu.org/services-to-members/
He further emphasised that stronger partnerships between UNATU and strategic stakeholders are essential in advancing teachers’ interests and strengthening the Union.
Focus on Recruitment and Membership Updates
The General Secretary reminded participants that effective membership management by UNATU depends on proper use of two key documents:
He encouraged Branch Chairpersons and strategic partners to ensure that newly recruited teachers receive the necessary forms and guidance to join the Union.
He also stressed the importance of engaging new members early so they understand UNATU’s role, the value of collective representation and the benefits available to them.
Supporting Teacher Wellbeing and Mental Health
Beyond membership matters, the meeting turned attention to an issue that often receives less public discussion: teachers’ mental health and psychosocial wellbeing.
The General Secretary observed that teachers face pressures both inside and outside the classroom and therefore require support systems that enable them to remain healthy and productive.
Among the signs of stress highlighted were frequent headaches, unusual fatigue and substance abuse. He also noted that prolonged stress may manifest through difficulty sleeping and changes in appetite.
He encouraged leaders and stakeholders to remain attentive to teachers’ wellbeing and to foster environments where those experiencing difficulties can seek support without fear or stigma.
Teachers Encouraged to Plan for Retirement
Participants were also reminded that preparing for retirement should begin long before the final day of service.
The General Secretary encouraged teachers to make informed financial and personal decisions that will enable them to transition smoothly into retirement.
He called for continued collaboration between Branch Chairpersons and strategic partners to support teachers throughout their careers and as they prepare for life beyond active service.
Plenary Session
During the plenary session, participants commended the General Secretary and the Union leadership for their efforts in advancing teachers’ interests.
They also raised concerns requiring continued advocacy, including support for teachers implementing the new curricula.
Participants noted that additional training and guidance would help teachers adapt more effectively to ongoing changes within the education sector.
Message from the Host Strategic Partner
The host strategic partner thanked the organisers for the opportunity to address participants and expressed appreciation to UNATU for working closely with partners to support teachers and address issues affecting the profession.
Describing the meeting as “enlightening,” she noted that she had gained a deeper understanding of issues such as how check-off codes can be affected by promotions.
She pledged to continue working with UNATU and encouraged fellow partners to strengthen their collaboration with the Union for the common goal of supporting teachers.
Closing Remarks
In his closing remarks, the National Secretary for Education, Professional Standards and Discipline, Chelimo Kitiyo Andiema, thanked participants for their active engagement throughout the meeting.
He appreciated the strategic partners for supporting and working with UNATU, and called for more meaningful engagement between the Union, strategic partners and Branch Chairpersons.
He noted that Branch Chairpersons remain key front runners in strengthening collaboration, mobilising members and ensuring that teacher concerns are communicated and addressed.
He also raised concern over the dwindling numbers in Arts Education, especially at secondary level, and called for continued attention to the matter.
He thanked all participants, wished them a safe journey and declared the meeting closed.
Conclusion
More than a routine meeting, the Eastern Regional Stakeholders’ Meeting served as a reminder that strong unions are built through communication, collaboration and responsiveness to members’ needs.
From celebrating membership growth to addressing teacher wellbeing and retirement planning, participants reaffirmed their shared commitment to improving the lives and professional experiences of teachers across the region.
Through such engagements, UNATU continues to strengthen its structures and improve its service to teachers across the country
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