In October 2024, STiR Education joined forces with other Education Non-Governmental Organizations, including the Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE) Uganda Chapter, Save the Children Uganda, Oxfam in Uganda, and UWEZO Uganda, under the umbrella organization Education Advocacy Network. Together, they reviewed and developed a memorandum on the National Teachers Bill to be presented to the Committee on Education and Sports of the Parliament of the Republic of Uganda. The convening represented the voices of key stakeholders in the sector at a parliamentary hearing.
The proposed legislation aims to give effect to the National Teachers Policy, which was adopted by the Cabinet on April 1, 2019. It seeks to professionalise and standardise the teaching profession to improve overall teacher development and management. The Bill is divided into eight parts, some of which have sparked significant public attention and controversy, including teacher registration, licensing, qualifications, conduct, and the establishment of a disciplinary committee. Collaborating with teacher representatives, local and international organizations, and experts allowed STiR Education and the wider network to prepare a comprehensive collection of recommendations reflecting diverse perspectives.
The Education Advocacy Network convened its members, including educational civil society organizations, teachers, educational institution managers, policymakers, legal experts, and advocates. Together they utilised a memorandum matrix to systematically collect bill provisions, identify issues, assess their effects on teachers, and offer recommendations. This analytical approach facilitated discussions on areas of controversy, focusing on implications for teachers and justifying the group’s proposed changes.
On October 15, 2024, members of the Education Advocacy Network were invited to present its proposals to the Parliamentary Committee on Education and Sports. While acknowledging various concerns affecting teachers, the network focused its comments on Persons of Concern Teachers, including refugees, asylum seekers, migrants, internally displaced persons, and stateless individuals. The network also emphasized the need for provisions addressing teacher salary and welfare, which were notably absent from the bill. Furthermore, the network raised issues related to international education and institutions.
Akite Brenda Otika, Associate Head, Government Relations and Partnership at STiR Education commented “Although the final decision rests with the lawmakers, delivering public proposals was an immensely satisfying experience. It fostered a stronger interaction between representatives from the Education Advocacy Network and members of the Parliamentary Committee on Education and Sports, underscoring the significance of public participation in the legislative process.
The journey of advocating for teachers through collective efforts not only amplifies the voices of those we represent but also enriches the legislative process itself. As we move forward, we remain committed to ensuring that the needs and aspirations of educators are at the forefront of national policy discussions. Together, we can shape a better future for the teaching profession in Uganda.”
