By Emmanuel Olinga
Despite celebrating commendable performance in the recently released Primary Leaving Examination (PLE) and Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) results on February 11, 2025, Katakwi District continues to struggle with a significant shortage of teachers.
The district, which operates 78 government-aided schools, requires over 1,037 teachers but currently has only 601 teachers catering to more than 55,000 learners.
Katakwi District Education Officer (DEO), Angela Atim Mudong, acknowledges the persistent challenge of inadequate teaching staff.
She revealed that despite numerous efforts to address the issue, including engaging the Ministry of Public Service and the Ministry of Education and Sports, the problem remains unsolved.
Mudong emphasized that the available teachers are overworked, frustrated, and facing immense stress due to excessive workloads.
Emmanuel Olaro, the Deputy Chief Administrative Officer (DCAO) of Katakwi, disclosed that the district has a deficit of approximately 600 teachers, with primary schools experiencing a 54% shortfall and secondary schools a 55% shortage.
He attributed the deficit to retirements, medical-related resignations, and teachers transferring to other districts.
Consequently, the district is grappling with a dire teacher-to-pupil ratio of 1:91, nearly double the national average of 1:45.
John Okot, Chairperson of the Uganda National Teachers’ Association (UNATA) Katakwi Branch, reported that some schools have as few as six teachers managing seven classrooms.
He highlighted that Katakwi needs 44 substantive head teachers, 53 deputy headteachers, 60 senior education assistants, and more education assistants to bridge the staffing gap.
According to Okot, the inadequate number of teachers is hindering overall student performance in national examinations.
In St. John Kaikamosing Primary School, a community school in Ngariam Sub-County established in 2019 under the Catholic Church, the situation is especially dire.
The school, has only six teachers, leading to a staggering teacher-to-pupil ratio of 1:50.
Deputy Headteacher Esther Judith Apuuno described the challenge as overwhelming, stating that it severely affects the quality of education delivered.
To address the crisis, Katakwi District recently advertised teaching positions, and 274 teachers were successfully recruited following interviews conducted by the District Service Commission (DSC).
However, these teachers have yet to receive their appointment letters due to alleged recruitment irregularities.
The recruitment process reportedly exceeded the allocated wage ceiling, further complicating the matter.
Geoffrey Omolo, the Katakwi District LC V Chairperson, assured stakeholders that the local government is actively engaging relevant ministries to resolve the issue.
He mentioned making at least 15 trips to Kampala to lobby for more resources and ensure proper recruitment procedures.
About Author
