By Eumu Emmanuel
Kaberamaido County MP Hon. Alfred Elalu Olale Edakasi has cautioned primary school headteachers in Kaberamaido District against sending children home over unpaid development fund fees. Speaking as the chief guest during World Teachers’ Day celebrations at Okapel Primary School, Edakasi emphasized that many families struggle to afford such fees and that it is essential for children to remain in school regardless of their financial situation. He also highlighted the district’s teacher shortage, noting a gap of 450 teachers that needs to be addressed to strengthen the education sector.
Edakasi further discussed the ongoing efforts in Parliament to harmonize salary enhancements for arts teachers, urging UNATO (Uganda National Teachers’ Union) leaders to engage with government executives to find ways to work together for the benefit of the teaching profession. He also called on parents to fulfill their responsibilities by providing the necessary school supplies for their children and urged local council leaders to ensure that every child in their village attends school, as education is key to improving livelihoods.
Mr. Emong Moses, chairperson of UNATO Kaberamaido District, echoed Edakasi’s concerns, noting that many teachers are living in poorly maintained housing. He expressed concern over the salary disparities between science and arts teachers, which he said has caused division within the profession. In his remarks, the district representative for the LCV, Mr. Opala Simon, commended teachers for their dedication to keeping children in school and ensuring progress in the district’s education system.
