Over 200 interviewed for 20 teaching jobs in Amuria

AMURIA - Amuria district has begun conducting interviews for 20 primary teaching positions, with over 200 shortlisted candidates vying for the limited slots.

The recruitment process, spearheaded by the district service commission (DSC), began on Monday, May 12, at Amuria Secondary School. The candidates, drawn from across the district, will undergo written assessments and oral interviews over a four-day period.

Shortlisting process

According to Florence Ekolot, the Amuria district education officer, 244 applicants were shortlisted out of more than 700 submissions. The positions were advertised earlier this year and attracted considerable interest.

“We followed the set procedures of the Public Service Commission,” Ekolot said. “We’re recruiting for posts such as classroom teachers and specialised roles like physical education.”

She attributed the high interest to limited job opportunities in the region and the appeal of public service employment.

Transparency emphasised

District leaders have pledged to ensure a transparent and merit-based recruitment process.

Rev. Father Simon Peter Ebi, the chairperson of the District Service Commission, emphasised the importance of fairness.

“This is about the future of our children,” he said. “We are looking for committed teachers who will deliver quality education.”

Candidates were required to present their academic qualifications, national IDs, and proof of prior teaching experience.

Addressing teacher shortages

The district, like many in Uganda, has long struggled with teacher shortages in public schools, particularly in rural areas.

Ekolot noted that while the current recruitment will not solve the problem entirely, it will significantly ease pressure on overcrowded classrooms.

Some parents and community leaders welcomed the exercise, urging the government to increase the number of available posts in future recruitment drives.

The selected candidates are expected to receive their appointment letters before the end of May, ahead of the next school term.