14th July 2025 | Fort Portal City
The Teaching Together 2025 program Western Region officially commenced its first week of training at Canon Apollo Teacher Training Institute (TTI) in Fort Portal City, with 50 enthusiastic participants drawn from the districts of Kitagwenda and Bundibugyo. The event marked the beginning of a two-week intensive professional development initiative, jointly organized by the Uganda National Teachers’ Union (UNATU) and the Canadian Teachers’ Federation (CTF).
A Warm Welcome from the Host Institution
The opening ceremony was graced by Mr. Mukasa Hubert Semuwemba, Principal of Canon Apollo TTI, who welcomed the participants and extended heartfelt thanks to UNATU and CTF for choosing the college as a host site. He emphasized that the program aligns well with the college’s mission of Continuous Professional Development (CPD) and its outreach objectives.
“Teachers must remain abreast with current education trends to improve the quality of teaching,” he noted. He also thanked the leadership from Kitagwenda and Bundibugyo for their support and acknowledged the presence of local government officials including the office of Fort Portal City Town Clerk and City Education Officer.
Regional and District-Level Support
Branch chairpersons from Kitagwenda and Bundibugyo expressed deep appreciation to UNATU and CTF for extending the initiative to their regions. They commended Canon Apollo TTI for embracing the program and reiterated the importance of such capacity-building programs in uplifting the quality of education in Uganda.
The Western Regional Chairperson, Mr. David Mugyeni, welcomed all participants and applauded CTF for its financial and technical support. He acknowledged UNATU’s role in lobbying for this longstanding partnership and urged teachers to be conscious learners, embrace change, and foster unity.
Training Overview and Union Message
Delivering a comprehensive overview of the Teaching Together program, UNATU General Secretary Baguma Filbert Bates reflected on the origins of the initiative, tracing it back to Bulera Core PTC, and celebrated its growth. He emphasized that the program is rooted in building teacher capacity and affirmed that each participant will receive a certificate upon successful completion.
He thanked CTF for their continued partnership spanning over 20 years, highlighting the shared commitment to teacher empowerment. “This is not just a training—it’s a call to transform your classrooms and communities,” he told participants. He also introduced the invited guests and later welcomed the CTF team leader to deliver her remarks.
CTF’s Commitment to Collaboration
CTF Team Leader Nadia addressed the participants with warmth and optimism, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside UNATU. She explained the evolution of the program’s name—Teaching Together—as a reflection of mutual growth and collaboration.
“I love that the college motto is ‘We are the light of the world’—because teachers truly have the power to change the world,” she said. “When we teach together, we become better teachers.” She encouraged all participants to enjoy the journey of learning, not just the destination.
Government and Local Leaders Echo Support
The City Education Officer encouraged participants to explore the cultural and educational landscape of Fort Portal and engage in peer benchmarking visits to local schools. He emphasized health and wellness, advising teachers to seek regular checkups amidst increasing health challenges among educators.
On behalf of the City Clerk, the Deputy Division Town Clerk officially welcomed participants to Fort Portal City, stressing the importance of security and collaboration during their stay.
Deep Dive: Gender and SRGBV Training
A pivotal session on Gender and School-Related Gender-Based Violence (SRGBV) was facilitated by UNATU’s Gender Officer. The session introduced participants to critical concepts such as the difference between sex and gender, socialization, and the role of educators in shaping inclusive learning environments.
Teachers explored real-life scenarios of SRGBV and discussed the importance of being proactive advocates for the rights of both girls and boys. Participants acknowledged the lack of consistent gender training in schools and called for more structured sensitization efforts in the future.
The Union’s Core Mission: Promote and Protect
In his concluding remarks, the General Secretary emphasized UNATU’s dual mandate—to promote professional development and to protect the legitimate rights of teachers. He reminded participants of the union’s history since its registration on 4th March 2003, and encouraged them to remain aware of key education policies such as the Public Service Standing Orders.
He urged teachers to read widely, stay vigilant on technology misuse among learners, and support each other emotionally and professionally. Highlighting increasing mental health challenges, he called for stronger psycho-social support in schools and emphasized the need to recognize warning signs among peers and learners.
On union rights, Mr. Baguma referenced constitutional provisions that guarantee economic and labor rights, including the right to join or exit a union. He also covered entitlements such as maternity leave, paternity leave, sick leave, and explained the procedures and requirements for pension and retirement, including special provisions for female educators retiring on marriage grounds.
A Call to Prepare and Stay United
“Plan for your retirement. Change your habits. Live better,” Mr. Baguma advised. He reminded teachers that while the union advocates for salary enhancement, the responsibility of implementation lies with the employer. He also warned against the influence of splinter groups and urged members to remain united.
“There is power in numbers—and together, we will continue to fight for what is just and right for every teacher in Uganda.”
