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The minister noted on Saturday that improved salaries have not necessarily translated into better performance, particularly in public schools, where teachers receive regular and competitive salaries compared to their counterparts in the private sector.
Speaking at the belated National Teachers' Day celebrations held at the UMAShow Grounds in Lugogo, Mrs Museveni stressed that the issue goes beyond financial compensation, citing the discrepancy between government teachers' pay and their performance.
"Teachers employed by the government are paid better and more regularly than their counterparts in the private sector. However, this better pay and regularity have not led to zero teacher absenteeism in public schools," she remarked.
Contoversial teachers' pay disparity
This statement feeds into the persisting controversy regarding the government's decision to drastically increase the salaries of science teachers in government schools.
In July 2022, the Ugandan government approved a salary increment for science teachers, significantly raising their pay to UGX 4 million per month, compared to UGX 900,000 for their counterparts teaching humanities.
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This decision led to criticism from various quarters, including the Uganda National Teachers Union (UNATU), which argued that the move created a division between teachers based on their subjects, resulting in discontent and strikes within the education sector.
Despite this criticism, President Yoweri Museveni has defended the decision, reiterating his government's focus on prioritising science education as a key driver of development.
Museveni has stated on several occasions that increasing the pay of science teachers is part of a broader strategy to promote science and technology, which he views as critical for Uganda's economic growth. He has also promised that the government will eventually raise the salaries of all teachers as more resources become available.
Minister Janet Museveni echoed this phased approach, noting that the government remains committed to improving the pay of all teachers.
However, she urged educators to reflect on their dedication to the profession, questioning why teachers in the private sector, who are paid less and sometimes irregularly, often show more commitment than those in government schools.
"A teacher in the private sector who is paid less and sometimes irregularly shows up diligently at his or her place of work. What compels this teacher, who is paid less, to show up diligently for duty, compared to one who is paid better? That question, everyone should answer in their hearts," she said.
The Minister said commitment to one's profession transcends financial incentives. She emphasised the importance of personal dedication, suggesting that teachers should view their roles as more than just jobs but as responsibilities to the future generation.