Authorities in Kitagwenda District have issued a stern warning to teachers accused of alcohol abuse, saying the vice is affecting performance in several schools across the district.
The concern was raised on Wednesday during the dissemination of the 2025 Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE) and Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) results at a district education forum held at the district headquarters.
The meeting drew teachers, political leaders and other education stakeholders.
Participants cited alcoholism and weak supervision by some head teachers as major contributors to poor academic performance, particularly in primary schools. It was alleged that some teachers report to school while intoxicated, while others miss lessons due to excessive drinking.
Several leaders criticised the district education department for transferring errant teachers instead of taking tougher disciplinary measures.
“We cannot continue recycling teachers who are drunkards from one school to another,” one local leader said during the meeting. “Such individuals should be dismissed to protect the future of our children.”
In response, Kitagwenda Chief Administrative Officer Moses RK Dalili said any disciplinary action must follow established public service procedures.
“If we are to dismiss teachers over alcoholism, there are clear procedures and guidelines that must be followed,” Dalili said.
“I urge parents and local leaders to properly document and report such cases to my office so that appropriate disciplinary action can be taken.”
Dalili condemned alcohol abuse among teachers, noting that it undermines professionalism and negatively affects learners’ outcomes.
“Excessive consumption of alcohol weakens teachers and makes them unable to effectively perform their duties,” he added. “We must uphold professionalism in our schools if we are to improve academic standards.”
Kitagwenda Resident District Commissioner Byarugaba Isiah Kanyamahane also called for greater accountability, urging parents and community leaders to actively monitor school operations.
“I call upon parents and leaders to report culprits to the relevant offices,” Kanyamahane said. “Submit their names to the District Service Commission so that disciplinary measures can be undertaken in accordance with the law.”
District leaders said the renewed crackdown signals a firmer stance against indiscipline in schools, expressing hope that collective responsibility from parents, administrators and government officials will help restore confidence in the education system and improve learning outcomes.
