Why Workers’ MP wants ad hoc committee created

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Workers Member of Parliament (MP) Abdulhu Byakatonda has demanded the creation of an ad hoc committee to resolve long-standing grievances over salaries, grading and recognition for public sector employees, particularly technical and vocational educators.

Speaking to the media at an event organised by the Uganda Technical and Vocational Trainers Union (UTVTU) in Kampala on November 11, 2025, Byakatonda emphasised that, "An ad hoc committee will streamline processes to ensure employees receive rightful salaries and grades matching their qualifications. Public Service cannot afford to delay justice any longer.”

He argued that technical educators are “the backbone of any thriving economy”, yet their contributions remain undervalued. He highlighted the urgent need to classify tutors as science professionals, mirroring the 2022 reforms for science teachers:

“If the President enhanced science teachers’ status, why exclude vocational tutors? Our economy depends on their ability to train skilled workers who boost foreign exchange.”

His proposal to Secretary to Cabinet Lucy Nakyobe aims to address what he calls systemic inequities. He is calling for:

• Salary upgrades for employees with advanced qualifications.
  
  
• Grading reforms to reflect skill levels.
  
  
• Inclusion of vocational trainers in science categories to unlock fair pay and promotions.
  
  

Union’s warnings

UTVTU secretary general Nobert Agaba claimed that over 5,000 tutors in 150 institutions are unrecognised, and 50,000 public servants haven’t been paid for over a year. 

However, New Vision Online could not independently verify such allegations.

“Workshop assistants with the same qualifications as lab technicians in secondary schools are denied equal pay. This is discrimination. They must be reclassified.”

“Without an ad hoc committee, Public Service will continue failing its employees. These workers deserve dignity, not bureaucracy," Byakatonda said.