Mpigi Teachers Allege Assault by Headteacher, Prompting District Investigation

Anger and distress are simmering among educators at Ggolo Progressive Islamic Primary School in Mpigi District, as several teachers have come forward with serious allegations against their headteacher, Isma Muwonge.

The educators claim that Muwonge has adopted a pattern of physically assaulting and humiliating staff members, creating a hostile environment that has driven multiple teachers to resign.

According to the accusers, the headteacher frequently resorts to using a cane to discipline teachers, even in front of students. Juliet Nabulya, a 50-year-old teacher, described a particularly harrowing incident where she was allegedly slapped, dragged from her classroom, and caned publicly. “I was teaching a Primary Three class when he entered angrily, slapped me, grabbed my dress by the shoulder, threw me to the ground and dragged me outside before caning me in full view of my pupils,” Nabulya recounted, emphasizing the profound humiliation rather than the physical pain.

Another former teacher, Isha Namujju, stated that repeated caning, even for minor infractions or demands for unpaid salary, ultimately led to her resignation. She alleged that Muwonge believes himself to be the most important person at the school and treats both staff and students with contempt. Namujju also mentioned a case where a female teacher was allegedly beaten and denied her salary.

These accusations have led to over eight teachers leaving the school due to the alleged mistreatment. The affected teachers are now appealing to district leaders and the Ministry of Education for intervention to address the ongoing suffering of those remaining at the school.

In response to the complaints, Mpigi District Chairperson Simon Peter Kawuki visited the school to investigate. However, Headteacher Muwonge has denied the allegations, suggesting they are an attempt to tarnish his reputation. He admitted to reprimanding teachers but claimed the assault accusations were fabricated, stating he only “pulled” Ms. Nabulya, causing her to fall.

District Chairperson Kawuki has announced plans for a comprehensive meeting involving headteachers, the District Education Committee, and labour officials to discuss the matter and decide on appropriate actions.

This article is based on reporting from Nile Post.