On 9th December 2024, the Uganda National Teachers’ Union (UNATU) officially launched the 2024-2026 Campaign Against School-Related Gender-Based Violence (SRGBV) under the theme, “Educators Determined to End SRGBV (EDE/SRGBV).” The launch took place during the 15th Women’s Round Table Conference at the National Teachers’ College, Kabale. This milestone event was presided over by UNATU’s National Chairperson, Tumuhimbise Zadock.
In his address, Tumuhimbise reaffirmed the commitment of educators to creating safe and supportive school environments. He highlighted the prevalence of SRGBV in Uganda, referencing studies that reveal high rates of physical, sexual, and emotional violence experienced by learners. The Chairperson emphasized that SRGBV has far-reaching consequences, including school dropouts, poor mental health, and violent behavior among affected children.
“As teachers, we need to ensure our school environments are free from the threat of violence. All children have a right to learn in safe and violence-free environments,” Tumuhimbise stated. He called on educators to uphold professionalism, equip learners with knowledge of their rights, and foster open environments where victims feel empowered to report cases.
The campaign launch coincided with the conference theme, “Valuing Female Educators’ Voices: Towards a New Social Contract for Education.” Dr. Goretti Nakabugo, Executive Director of UWEZO Uganda and the event’s chief guest, joined notable figures including Joyce Atimango, Executive Director of Trailblazers Mentoring Foundation; Daisy Aliwaru, Principal of Uganda National Institute of Teacher Education, Muni Campus; Komunda Annet, Principal of NTC Kabale; and Hon. Rwabushaija Margaret, Workers MP, UNATU General Secretary, Baguma Filbert in signing a banner to symbolize their commitment to the cause.
The colorful ceremony was met with cheers from the female educators from across the country in attendance, demonstrating their resolve to champion safer school environments for both learners and educators. This launch marks another bold step by UNATU in its unwavering effort to eliminate violence in schools and foster inclusive education.
