Enough of caretaking! Lamwo ARDC urges ‘head’ teachers to upgrade

The Assistant Resident District Commissioner (ARDC) of Lamwo District, Robinson Oyoo, has appealed to teachers in the district to embrace refresher training and pursue further academic qualifications to secure promotions and strengthen leadership in schools.

Oyoo made the call after it emerged that a significant number of primary schools in Lamwo district are currently headed by teachers serving in acting capacities rather than substantive roles.

According to the District Education Officer (DEO), Banabas Langoya, out of 74 head teacher positions across the district, only 28 are filled by substantive appointees. At the same time, the remaining 46 are being handled by caretakers.

Langoya noted that this situation has created gaps in school management, as acting head teachers often lack the full mandate and confidence to make long-term administrative decisions.

Oyoo stressed that professional development is crucial for teachers to meet the requirements of the Education Service Commission for confirmation and promotion. He urged those in caretaking roles not to remain complacent but to take advantage of opportunities for upgrading so they can compete favorably when substantive appointments are advertised.

He further explained that the government is committed to improving the quality of education in Lamwo but that such efforts require strong, qualified, and permanent leadership at the school level.

Erwondo Peter Fred, the Secretary for Health, Education, and Community-Based Services in Lamwo district, echoed the RDC’s appeal, saying that the large number of caretakers compromises accountability and consistency in school operations.

Erwondo called on the Ministry of Education and Sports to expedite the process of confirming qualified teachers in acting positions and to provide more support for professional development.

Oling Jacob, the head teacher of Padibe Primary school welcomed the ARDC’s initiative, saying it could open doors for teachers to secure substantive positions.

Oling said: “If more of us upgrade, it will not only help teachers get good jobs but also strengthen the wage bill that schools need to function effectively.”

The appeal comes at a time when Lamwo district, like many parts of northern Uganda, continues to grapple with challenges in the education sector, including teacher shortages, inadequate infrastructure, and high pupil-to-teacher ratios.