Vice President Alupo Urges Katakwi Teachers to Enhance Academic Excellence
KATAKWI | Vice-President Jessica Alupo has been known to wear a few hats, the military one being the most prominent. See, she is a career soldier who retired at the rank of a Major.
But there might just about be more hats under her belt and the latest she reminded the nation of is that of a teacher. Yes, the way she holds the chalk, and the way she carries herself before a classroom… a teacher material.
At the weekend in Katakwi District, VP Alupo put aside that VVIP lapel and grabbed a piece of chalk to show students what they are missing by President Museveni keeping her in State House.
Subject: Chemistry.
Topic: The Bunsen Burner.
And boy, did she ace it!
Teacher Alupo was not imparting in her students the uses of Robert Bunsen’s gas lighting apparatus but rather to tip teachers on their cardinal role in shaping the society.
She called for greater collaboration among teachers in Katakwi to improve academic performance.
“You are not just teachers; you are mentors, guides, and role models,” the VP, an educator, told some 1,673 teachers at Epel Memorial Training Institute.
“Your influence reaches far beyond the classroom, shaping the character and values of our future leaders.”
The event gathered educators from various government and community primary schools, Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres, secondary schools, and technical institutions.
Ms Alupo highlighted the essential role teachers play in shaping future generations and acknowledged their contributions to the nation’s education system.
The VP, who was accompanied by Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Education and Sports, Kedrace Turyagyenda, addressed several key concerns raised by the teachers, including salary disparities, heavy workloads, teacher housing, and recognition for high-performing educators.
Ms Alupo assured the teachers that the government remains committed to resolving their issues, albeit gradually.
She acknowledged the demand for salary harmonization, hardship allowances, and concerns regarding the policy requiring ECD teachers to hold university degrees.
Additionally, the former Education and Sports minister pledged to advocate for infrastructure improvements, including dormitories for newly established seed schools and the inclusion of Epel Memorial on the government payroll.
The Vice President encouraged educators to adopt innovative teaching methods and create inclusive learning environments.
“As educators, you lay the foundation of our education system. Your dedication has a profound impact on your students’ lives, and I want to recognize and thank you for your tireless efforts,” she said.
During her visit, Alupo also challenged students with chemistry questions at a local secondary school and launched a skills training program at Epel Memorial Training Institute.
She emphasized the importance of continued collaboration between teachers and education leaders in achieving the district’s academic goals.
PS Turyagyenda echoed Alupo’s sentiments, describing teaching as a noble profession.
She reassured teachers that the proposed teacher policy remains under discussion and has not yet been approved by Parliament.
Ms Turyagyenda urged teachers to focus on holistic student development—academically, morally, and socially.
“The result of your work is shaping human beings. Though I now serve as Permanent Secretary, my heart remains that of a teacher,” shs said.
Ms Turyagyenda also encouraged teachers to educate parents about supporting their children’s learning, particularly through proper nutrition.
Katakwi’s education statistics reveal that 72% of the 2,999 students who recently sat for the Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE) passed with Division 1-3 grades, reflecting the district’s growing academic success.
Alupo congratulated the teachers and district leaders but stressed the need for continuous improvement.
Usuk County MP Bosco Okiror and Katakwi District Chairman Geoffrey Omolo thanked Alupo for her dedication to raising education standards.
They emphasized the need to address infrastructure shortages, recruit more teachers, and ensure efficient payroll management to sustain progress.
Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Maj. Godfrey Katamba applauded the Vice President for championing the improvement of social services.
He informed the teachers of a school feeding policy review and called on the government to endorse it to support the feeding of school-going children, enhancing their academic performance.
Alupo concluded by urging teachers to continue spreading the “light of knowledge” and empowering students for a brighter future.
“Your well-being is important, and I assure you that the government will prioritize teacher welfare,” she affirmed.
The Vice President’s visit underscores the government’s ongoing efforts to support teachers and improve Uganda’s education system, particularly in rural areas where educators face unique challenges.
