Headteachers Decry Intimidation by Government Ministers

18 July 2026, 4:47 am

By Hillary Opio Omara & Regina Lalam

Photo By Hillary Opio Omara

LIRA — The Association of Secondary School Headteachers of Uganda (ASSHU) has strongly condemned the manner in which government ministers are conducting school inspections, accusing them of public intimidation and humiliation of headteachers.

Speaking during a preparatory meeting at St. Katherine Secondary School in Lira City on Friday, July 17, 2026, ASSHU National President Hajjat Nabukeera Zulaika said the approach by some ministers appointed by President Yoweri Museveni is demoralizing and undermining the education sector.

The meeting was held ahead of the national ASSHU conference scheduled for September 3rd to 4th 2026.

Hajjat Nabukeera said some ministers have been publicly faulting headteachers during inspections over issues of school fees and student enrollment.

“The work of teachers is not easy. Government officials should appreciate the challenges teachers face instead of publicly humiliating them,” she said.

She argued that while government has a duty to monitor schools, inspections must be done professionally and respectfully.

The ASSHU President warned that continued public criticism of teachers by senior government officials risks eroding respect for the profession and could discourage educators from performing their duties effectively.

She also called on government to improve the welfare of headteachers and their deputies, particularly those teaching Arts subjects, saying many still receive lower pay despite their contribution to education.

Hajjat Nabukeera said if government fails to address the concerns, the association will formally petition President Museveni for intervention.

Lango Headteachers Echo Concerns

Isaac Ocoo, Lira Secondary School Headteacher and ASSHU Chairperson for Lango Sub-region, said the conduct of some ministers has created fear among headteachers.

“We appeal to government to prioritize teachers’ welfare. Motivated teachers are essential for improving education standards,” he said.

Morish Okunu, Headteacher of Father Aloysius Secondary School in Bala, said the upcoming national conference will provide a platform to discuss key issues affecting secondary education and find practical solutions.

Margarita Akello, Headteacher of St. Katherine Secondary School, said the school is fully prepared to host delegates from across Uganda for the September conference.

The concerns follow recent inspection visits by Minister of Local Government Balam Byeruhunga and State Minister for Local Government Justin Nameere, who reportedly inspected schools in Namisindwa and Jinja districts to verify school fees and enrollment figures.