The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, the Most Rev Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, has called on teachers and school administrators to act as ambassadors of peace and avoid partisan politics, particularly during politically charged periods.
Addressing headteachers and religious leaders at the Annual General Meeting of the Church of Uganda Headteachers Association (COUHEA) at Uganda Christian University in Mukono, Kaziimba stressed that teachers shape society and their actions have a lasting impact on the nation’s future.
“Teachers are shapers of society. What you say and do has a direct impact on the future of this nation. I urge you to promote unity, discipline, and moral values, and to stay away from divisive politics that can tear our communities apart,” he said.
He emphasized that schools must remain safe spaces for learners and warned against involving students in partisan political activities.
Kaziimba also raised concern about drug abuse among both students and teachers, describing it as a factor that has undermined education standards.
“Drug abuse is silently destroying our schools and lowering the quality of education. As the Church, we are actively fighting this vice,” he said.
The Bishop of South Ankole Diocese, Rev Nathan Ahimbisibwe, urged headteachers in Anglican-founded schools to make productive use of the large tracts of land allocated to their institutions.
“It is unfortunate that some schools have land but do not use it, yet their staff are suffering and buying food. This land should be used profitably to support schools and improve the welfare of teachers,” he said, adding that the Church is richly endowed with resources that should be wisely managed.
The Minister of State for Finance, Planning and Economic Development (Planning), Amos Lugolobi, also called on school administrators to strengthen leadership and planning within their institutions.
“Effective leadership and proper planning are key to driving positive change in our schools,” he said.
