Andrew Ronald Bakaki, the Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) for Sironko District, has vowed to take firm action against teachers and headteachers who are closing government-aided schools and sending students home.
Bakaki revealed that his office has received reports from various areas—including Sironko Town Council, Bukhulo Sub-county, Bukiise Sub-county, and Bumalimba Sub-county—where headteachers have allegedly shut down schools in protest.
The closures are linked to an ongoing industrial action by teachers, driven by persistent salary disparities that have sparked repeated disputes in Uganda’s education sector. Uganda National Teachers’ Union (UNATU) General Secretary Filbert Baguma stated that the strike follows three years of unsuccessful negotiations with the government.
Bakaki, however, emphasized that while teachers have the right to express their grievances, they do not have the right to infringe on learners’ rights. He stressed that all children have a constitutional right to education, and government schools must remain open.
“No headteacher in Sironko District has the authority to close a government school,” he warned, adding that disciplinary measures will be taken against those who defy this directive.
He also urged parents not to support the strike by keeping their children at home. Instead, he encouraged them to prioritize their children’s education and ensure they attend school.
Bakaki further appealed to the striking teachers to return to work and continue addressing their concerns through official channels at the Ministry of Education.
