Lira Teachers Wait for UNEB Payment: Did the Money Take a Wrong Turn?

Lira City, Uganda – Teachers in Lira City who were responsible for supervising the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) exams are expressing their frustration over an ongoing delay in payments that has now lasted more than a month.

While educators in other districts of the Lango sub-region have already received their payments, those in Lira City are still waiting, with many citing financial pressures as the holiday season approaches.

On December 3, 2024, a group of teachers spoke out, requesting anonymity as they shared their concerns.

They revealed that, despite being informed that payments would be delayed, the month-long wait has left them struggling to manage their finances, especially with children returning home for the holidays.

“We were told the money would come, but it’s been a month, and we are still waiting,” one teacher said. “It’s hard to keep explaining this delay to our families, especially with Christmas around the corner. Even a small payment would help us tremendously.”

Lira City hosted over 33 UNEB examination centers, involving more than 300 teachers in roles ranging from supervisors to chief invigilators.

With the festive season fast approaching, these educators are feeling the financial strain and are seeking answers from local education authorities.

In response to the teachers’ concerns, Andrew Ogwang Oyang, Acting City Education Officer, acknowledged the issue, stating that the delays were not the fault of the Lira City Education Office.

“We understand the frustration of the teachers, and we want to reassure them that this delay is not on our end. UNEB has faced some challenges with its payment system,” Ogwang Oyang explained.

“We did inform the teachers beforehand that payments might take longer than expected due to these issues, but we are doing everything we can to ensure that they are paid once the funds are transferred to our accounts,” he said.

Ogwang Oyang also emphasized that the teachers’ earnings would be handled appropriately and that there were no concerns about mismanagement or theft.

However, despite the official response, many teachers remain anxious, with the holiday season adding additional financial burdens.

The delay highlights ongoing administrative challenges within Uganda’s education sector, where payment delays for exam-related duties are a recurring issue.

Teachers who worked diligently to ensure the smooth conduct of UNEB exams now find themselves in a difficult position, waiting for compensation that many feel they have earned.

As the holiday season nears, the teachers of Lira City are hoping for a swift resolution to the payment delays, as many rely on these funds to support their families during a busy and expensive time of year.

Meanwhile, the Lira City Education Office has pledged to keep the teachers updated and informed about any progress regarding the payment situation.