VP Alupo, Teachers deliberate on academic standards in Katakwi
The Vice President Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Alupo has engaged with all teachers of Katakwi to enhance academic excellence in the district.
The VP also visited a secondary school where she challenged students with Chemistry questions and inaugurated the Skills Training at Epel Memorial Training Institute.
Alupo was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education and Sports, Kadrace Turyagyenda.
A total of 1673 teachers from various educational institutions including government-aided primary schools, community primary schools, Early Childhood Development centers, government-aided secondary schools, private secondary schools, community secondary schools, Epel Memorial Technical Institution, Katakwi Technical, and Private technical schools participated in the event.
Key issues discussed included salary disparities, excessive workload, teacher policies, the requirement for ECD teachers to possess a university degree, teachers’ housing, recognition of top-performing teachers, hardship allowances, school-based recruitment, free fiber optic connectivity, service schemes, dormitories for newly established seed schools, and the inclusion of Epel Memorial on the government payroll.
In her address, VP Alupo acknowledged the pivotal role teachers play in shaping the future generations and urged them to improve student outcomes, create inclusive learning environments, and implement innovative teaching methods.
“As educators, you are the foundation of our education system. Your dedication and expertise have a profound impact on your students’ lives. Today, I want to recognize your tireless efforts and express my deepest gratitude,” Alupo stated.
She encouraged teachers to stay focused amidst the challenges highlighted by their Chairperson, Pius Oleer, assuring them that the government is working to address these issues gradually.
“You are not merely teachers but also mentors, guides, and role models. You instill curiosity, foster creativity, and nurture critical thinking. Your influence extends beyond the classroom, shaping the character and values of our future leaders,” Alupo added.
She commended teachers for their commitment to student-centered learning and continuous professional development, promising government support for ongoing training to the best of their ability.
Alupo emphasized the importance of collaboration and communication among educators, urging them to continue working together.
“Your well-being is important, and I assure you that the government will prioritize teacher welfare,” she affirmed.
The Vice President urged teachers to keep kindling the light of knowledge, spreading it to countless learners.
“I urge you to continue empowering our students as it is a divine opportunity,”she concluded.
She praised the new PS, Turyagyenda, for her dedication in leading the education ministry and congratulated her on her recent appointment.
Usuk County MP, Bosco Okiror, thanked the Vice President for engaging with teachers to enhance academic performance in the district, emphasizing the need to address infrastructure shortages in primary schools, recruit new teachers, and ensure efficient payroll management.
Turyagyenda stressed that teaching is a noble profession and teachers hold a special place in society.
“The outcome of your work is shaping human beings. Although I am currently in the role of Permanent Secretary, my heart remains that of a teacher,” she shared.
The PS advised teachers to focus on the learner’s development, highlighting the importance of the teacher’s role in nurturing the body, mind, soul, character, and personality of students.
She assured teachers not to worry about the upcoming teacher policy as it is still under discussion and pending approval by parliament.
Turyagyenda urged teachers to educate parents on their responsibility to feed and nurture their children for holistic development.
She emphasized the significance of following the teacher’s code of conduct, underscoring the teacher’s duty to develop students comprehensively.
The PS expressed gratitude to teachers, district leadership, and the Vice President for the academic progress witnessed in recent years.
According to district education department statistics, 72% of the 2999 children who sat for primary leaving examinations passed with Division 1-3 grades.
RDC Maj. Godfrey Katamba commended the Vice President for her efforts in improving social services and advocated for the endorsement of a school feeding policy to enhance academic performance.
He compared teachers to candles that sacrifice themselves to illuminate others, urging them to educate parents on their role in their children’s moral upbringing.
Geoffrey Omolo, Katakwi district Chairman, thanked the Vice President for engaging with teachers to enhance education standards, emphasizing the importance of trust and collaboration between teachers and leaders.
