A new Bill aims to strengthen the ethical standards within Uganda’s teaching profession by imposing stringent penalties on learning institutions that hire unlicensed teachers.
The National Teachers Bill, 2024, introduced by State Minister for Higher Education, Mr. John Chrysostom Muyingo, proposes a Shs14 million fine for institutions hiring teachers without a practicing license.
Bill Overview and Objectives
The National Teachers Bill, 2024, seeks to address the deficiencies in the current Education Act of 2008. The Bill recommends a Shs10 million fine or a year in jail for individuals teaching without a license.
Additionally, teachers found using fake academic papers to secure a license could face a Shs5 million fine, two years in prison, or both.
The Bill emphasizes the need for a professional body to regulate the teaching profession by consolidating registration and licensing processes, enforcing discipline and professional conduct, and promoting continuous professional development.
Regulatory Measures
Under the proposed Bill, the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) will issue certificates of registration to qualified teachers.
These certificates are valid for four years and must be renewed at least two months before expiry.
The NCHE has the authority to cancel certificates if teachers are found unfit to practice, with penalties including a Shs5 million fine or a five-year jail term for impersonating a teacher.
Reactions and Concerns
The Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, Mr. Joel Ssenyonyi, and Kalungu West MP, Mr. Joseph Ssewungu, raised concerns about salary disparities between science and arts teachers, questioning the government’s emphasis on higher pay for science teachers.
Minister Muyingo assured that the Bill addresses broader management issues within the teaching profession.
Meanwhile, Mr. Musa Mugoya from the Initiative for Social and Economic Rights (ISER) supported the Bill, noting the importance of regulating the teaching profession to eliminate unqualified teachers.
However, the Uganda Science Teachers Union, represented by General Secretary Mr. Aron Mugaiga, expressed concerns over the hefty fines, fearing potential abuse.
Despite these concerns, the Union acknowledged the necessity of the Bill for maintaining teacher performance and integrity.
Key Provisions of the Bill
- Mandatory registration and licensing for teachers.
- Competence tests and prescribed internships for certification.
- Degree in education required for registration.
- Certificates can be canceled for misleading information.
- Non-Ugandan teachers must meet specific criteria, including three years of prior teaching experience, a work permit, and a certificate of good conduct from Interpol.
- Teaching licenses valid for four years and require renewal two months before expiry.
The National Teachers Bill, 2024, aims to fill gaps in the existing education law by enforcing stricter regulations and penalties to ensure the integrity and professionalism of Uganda’s teaching workforce.