Teachers at Kampala Parents’ School in Naguru have staged a rare protest against low pay and alleged discriminatory practices at the prestigious primary school owned by businessman Sudhir Ruparelia.
The protest highlights broader issues of wage inequality and labor treatment in private institutions, raising questions about the balance between profit-driven operations and fair employee compensation, even in elite schools.
A video circulating on social media captures frustrated teachers decrying what they described as poor pay and unfair treatment. One teacher likened their plight to working in a shop where they “cannot eat something,” reflecting deep dissatisfaction among staff members.
Teachers allege significant pay disparities, claiming Indian employees at the school receive preferential treatment, earning considerably more than Ugandan staff. They further noted that while some employees, like gatekeepers, reportedly earn up to UGX 3 million monthly, teachers take home just UGX 600,000 in net pay.
Adding to their grievances, the teachers alleged attempts to silence them, claiming they were locked indoors to prevent them from airing their complaints publicly.
The school is part of the Ruparelia Group, a vast business empire that spans real estate, education, hospitality, and more. Sudhir Ruparelia, considered Uganda’s richest individual, has faced criticism for labor practices at some of his enterprises.
Reactions:
The protest has sparked a wave of reactions online, with some Ugandans expressing solidarity with the teachers and calling for better wages and treatment. Others questioned the reported discrepancies in pay, asking for accountability from the school’s management.
The school administration is yet to issue an official statement regarding the allegations. Labor rights advocates are urging authorities to investigate the claims and ensure equitable working conditions for teachers across the sector.
Analysis:
This incident draws attention to the broader issue of teacher remuneration in Uganda, where many educators face low wages despite working in profit-making institutions. The outcome of this protest may set a precedent for how labor issues in private schools are addressed moving forward.
