A joint meeting hosted by the Guild presidents coming from top universities in Uganda have directed their frustration towards the Ministry of Education demanding for immediate reforms regarding the handling of the Covid-19 crisis.
The United students leaders have given a 30 days ultimatum towards the minister in charge, First lady Janet Museveni to either attend to their grievances or resign.
Kyambogo University’s Mbaziira John, Makerere’s Ssempijja Ivan, MTAC’s Ewalu Deo, MUBS’ Ogwang Robinson and Muteesa 1 Royal’s Male Ashiraf were the present Guild Presidents while Namara Claire and Noela Awal from Kyambogo and Makerere respectively attended in capacities of Vice Presidents.
“In the face of changing social, political and economic spheres, there is a need to ensure continued education, in a safe environment, for every child,” the Union suggested in a lengthy writing but an up-close with our reporter elucidated that the coalition had the following key demands;
- Issuing out a comprehensive timely plan for mass vaccination of students and teachers within 30 days, failure of which, the Ministers of the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Health must “resign“.
- All institutions of learning must Administer all pending examinations.
- Bridging the funding gap by availing resources geared towards the re opening of schools. This can be done by supporting schools with personal protective equipment and upgrading their health infrastructures.
- Creation of a stimulus package for the members of the education sector such as Teachers, and other beneficiaries.
The Guild Presidents as well sought a second hand from the public by calling on several stakeholders to join the fight.
“We appeal to all local leaders, parliamentarians to use their mandate to ensure that schools are prioritised for re-opening and funding for schools is in place for continued learning,” the Presidents’ statement read.
