Arts teachers’ salary increment to take effect in July 2026

2 July 2026, 12:15 pm

By Ronald Ssemagonja

The government has confirmed that the long-awaited salary increment for arts teachers will take effect this month of July 2026, following its phased plan to enhance the pay of public servants.

Speaking at the Uganda Media Centre, Minister for Public Service General Katumba Wamala said the adjustment, which was approved in the current financial year, will now be implemented. He noted that arts teachers have for years engaged government over salary disparities, especially compared to their science counterparts.

“We have come here to confirm that the salaries for arts teachers, which were increased by government starting this financial year, will take effect this month,” he said. “On the issue of medical interns’ allowances, we are still waiting for Cabinet to decide. Once a decision is made, we shall inform the public.”

The minister also urged public servants to practice financial discipline, encouraging saving and responsible spending. He cautioned against misuse of salaries, including excessive spending on alcohol and unnecessary borrowing.

He further noted that government has also enhanced salaries for other categories of workers, including mortuary attendants.

On public service delivery, Katumba said the ministry is addressing absenteeism among government workers through measures such as biometric attendance systems and physical verification.

According to the Ministry of Public Service, headteachers’ salaries have been increased from about UGX 770,000 to over UGX 1 million, while primary school teachers with certificates will now earn over UGX 700,000, up from UGX 499,684.

The government also indicated that the national wage bill has increased from over UGX 8 trillion to more than UGX 9 trillion to accommodate the salary enhancements. In addition, government will contribute an extra 10% to pension payments, with public servants contributing the remaining 5%.