By Jamillah Kemigisa
As government primary school teachers persist in their nationwide strike, Catholic education leaders have been exhorted to rise above the turbulence and embody beacons of hope, integrity, and transformation within Uganda’s beleaguered education sector.
The clarion call was sounded by Bishop Robert K. Muhiirwa Akiiki during a solemn Eucharistic celebration at Virika Cathedral in Fort Portal City yesterday, marking the climax of Education Week for Catholic-founded institutions under his Diocese.
Addressing a congregation that comprised clergy, educators, administrators, and students, Bishop Muhiirwa urged school heads to transcend the role of mere administrators and embrace the mantle of visionary architects of enduring change.
“You have not been called to this position simply to occupy an office,” the prelate declared. “You are called to shape lives, forge futures, and lead with a vision that will outlive you.”
His admonition comes at a moment of acute strain in Uganda’s education system, with thousands of learners languishing at home as government teachers continue their industrial action over poor pay, hostile working conditions, and unfulfilled ministerial pledges. The strike has crippled most public schools nationwide.
In stark contrast, Catholic-founded institutions under the Diocese have remained in operation. While commending their resilience, Bishop Muhiirwa cautioned against complacency, reminding educators that true leadership is tested in adversity.
“Yes, the obstacles are real — dilapidated infrastructure, meagre and delayed salaries, parents defaulting on fees, and at times uncooperative staff. Yet these cannot become excuses for lowering our standards or extinguishing our passion,” he insisted.
Reaffirming the sacred dimension of teaching, the Bishop exhorted educators to view their work not as a mere profession but as a divine vocation demanding faith, discipline, and compassion.
“Be passionate. Be committed. And above all, be different. Let Catholic schools be renowned not merely for academic excellence, but for nurturing ethical, responsible, and God-fearing citizens,” he emphasized.
Education Week itself was punctuated by spiritual reflections, academic exhibitions, debates, community service, and inter-school sports, culminating in the cathedral Mass. Its theme — Faith, Excellence, and Service in Education — reverberated with the Bishop’s summons to transformational leadership grounded in Christian values.
With public education now at a crossroads, Bishop Muhiirwa’s message functioned both as a rallying cry to Catholic educators and a sobering reflection on the necessity of moral leadership during moments of national upheaval.
Concluding the liturgy, he appealed to all stakeholders — Church, State, and parents alike — to marshal collective responsibility in reconstructing a stronger, values-driven education system for Uganda’s future.
The sector continues to grapple with chronic impediments: low remuneration, delayed capitation grants, and crumbling infrastructure. The ongoing strike, spearheaded by the teachers’ union, seeks redress through salary harmonization and improved welfare. Catholic schools, though not immune to financial constraints, often remain afloat through ecclesiastical backing and community solidarity.
