Kampala Parents’ School Restores Normalcy as Staff Strike Ends After Sudhir’s Intervention

By Gad Masereka

Kampala, Uganda – After a tense week of disruption, Kampala Parents’ School has regained its footing following the resolution of a sit-down strike by teaching and non-teaching staff. The breakthrough came on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, after a meeting chaired by the school’s proprietor, Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia.

The strike, initiated last Friday, stemmed from demands for better pay, a halt to salary deductions, and improved working conditions. Staff members had expressed frustration, prompting significant concern among parents as end-of-year exams approached.

Dr. Sudhir, known for his hands-on leadership, engaged directly with staff representatives to address their grievances. Following the discussions, the staff collectively agreed to resume their duties, with classes set to reopen on Wednesday, November 27, 2024. End-of-year exams will proceed as planned on Thursday and Friday.

“We are pleased to inform our esteemed parents that the strike has officially ended,” read a statement from the staff, acknowledging that many of their immediate concerns had been resolved, while long-term solutions were in progress.

Chairman Sudhir’s response included offering each teacher a significant incentive: a reduced fee of 700,000 Ugandan shillings for one child’s education at the prestigious school. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of addressing internal issues before they escalate to the media, to safeguard the institution’s reputation.

The proactive approach taken by Dr. Sudhir was widely applauded by both staff and parents. Parents expressed gratitude for the businessman’s swift intervention, which ensured that learners could complete their term uninterrupted.

Staff representatives, including Welcome Chrispinus, Mwijukye Ambrose, and Orishaba Onesmus, thanked parents for their patience and support. They assured them of the school’s renewed commitment to academic excellence and a harmonious working environment.

Parents who have kids at the Kampala school also heaped praise on the city tycoon for his proactive involvement in sorting the impasse which has opened doors for a conducive learning environment as learners wind up the third term.