Government bows to pressure, to recruit more IRE teachers after complaints from Muslims

The Permanent Secretary in the Education Service Commission(ESC),Asuman Lukwago has reassured the Muslim community that the Ministry of Education and Sports will re-advertise the recruitment of teachers for Islamic Religious Education (IRE).

The Uganda Muslim Supreme Council-UMSC, a few days ago resurrected its longtime complaint against government for allegedly sidelining Muslims during the appointment and promotion of teachers.

The fresh dispute stemmed from the recent appointment and promotions of teachers where ESC named four assistant education officers to teach Islamic Religious Education (IRE).

To the dismay of Muslims and UMSC, none of the four assistant education officers is a Muslim.

However, during a meeting with UMSC led by Sheikh Bakhit Juma Cucu, the Secretary for Education at UMSC in the commission offices, Lukwago said that the just concluded interviews and recruitment of religious education teachers including IRE was internal and for in-service diploma teachers upon their attainment of higher qualifications, which saw them promoted as education officers.

He explained that the entire exercise did not happen as was earlier on scheduled due to low turn up of applicants.

"Indeed in some areas, designated slots are still vacant," Lukwago said.

He explained that the few teachers who turned up for interviews and got appointed had the relevant and appropriate credentials to teach IRE, some being Muslim converts.

Lukwago agreed with UMSC that there was a communication gap which could have affected the turn up.

"As for IRE, the ministry has noted that there are many degree holders who are unemployed. So, such teachers are encouraged to utilise the forthcoming opportunity to apply," he said.

Sheikh Cucu thanked the host for his parental care, guidance and pleaded for closer cooperation as stakeholders in the education sector.