Mbarara City’s classrooms are falling silent as an unprecedented wave of teacher retirements leaves schools struggling to maintain quality education.
Over 80 primary school teachers have opted for early retirement in just two years, creating a serious gap in the educational workforce.
The empty classrooms and scarce teachers are not only affecting learning but also pushing students to drop out, as parents grow frustrated with rising fees and deteriorating conditions.
City Clerk Assy Abireebe Tumwesigire expressed the urgency of the situation. “We’re committed to filling these roles as soon as possible,” he said.
“But without support from the central government, we’re unable to proceed quickly with recruitment.”
City authorities acknowledged that classrooms are rapidly becoming buildings without teachers, a situation that is undermining the city’s educational foundations.
Despite parents paying between 300,000 and 600,000 shillings per term, students are often forced to share desks in overcrowded rooms.
“We are paying more, but seeing less value,” lamented one city councillor, Benjamin.
The issue of teacher shortages has been raised repeatedly in city council meetings, with local leaders warning of a growing crisis.
City education officials have argued that unless teachers are replaced swiftly, Mbarara’s students will be left without the guidance needed to succeed.
Despite these challenges, Mbarara City Education Officer Ezira Atuhairwe remains hopeful, noting last year’s impressive 99% pass rate as a benchmark for continued success amidst an increasingly strained educational environment.