The Ugandan government has informed striking teachers that their demands for a salary increase cannot be met due to severe budget limitations. Public Service Minister Muruli Mukasa explained in Parliament on October 1, 2025, during discussions on the Human Resource Management Professionals Bill, that Uganda currently funds only 31% of its national budget domestically, with the remainder dependent on loans and grants from development partners.
This financial situation prevents the government from meeting teachers’ salary demands. Any pay increases must come from domestic revenue, which is limited, and the government is committed to avoiding borrowing for salaries.
Lawmakers have criticized the government, raising concerns over how it will recruit 50,000 new teachers as promised by President Museveni while struggling to pay existing staff. There are also concerns about disruptions to public school students, especially when private schools remain unaffected.
The recruitment of new teachers is planned for the 2026/27 financial year and will be included in the upcoming budget. Teachers on strike will continue to receive their salaries, but the government’s capacity to provide additional increases is limited.
The proposed 300% salary increase is considered unfeasible. While the government plans to implement a 25% pay rise in the next financial year, teachers have already received multiple increases since 2019. Primary school teachers’ salaries have grown from UGX 200,000 to over UGX 600,000 per month, science teachers earn up to UGX 4 million monthly, and school administrators earn higher amounts.
The strike’s impact on students is being monitored, and the government has implemented measures to support teachers’ welfare. These include a UGX 20 billion allocation to the Teachers’ SACCO, another UGX 20 billion for the UNATU SACCO, and proposals to sponsor the education of up to four children per teacher.
Plans are also being revived to provide government housing for teachers, doctors, and security personnel, following a policy from the 1970s, with the aim of improving efficiency and welfare for key public servants.
Salary disparities, particularly among arts teachers, are under review. The Ministry of Finance is considering adjustments to PAYE taxes and potential waivers, as well as proposals to sponsor the education of up to four biological children of teachers, which has received presidential support.
While the government remains committed to addressing teachers’ concerns, financial constraints continue to limit immediate salary increases. Teachers are encouraged to consider these limitations as the government implements alternative measures to support their welfare.
