Archbishop Most Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Obbo in a group photos with teachers and catechists from Catholic institutions across the Bukedi, Bugisu, and Sebei sub-regions. (Courtesy photo)

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In a powerful address at the inaugural Tororo Archdiocesan Teachers' Day, Archbishop Most Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Obbo urged educators to regard their profession as a path to "sainthood," stressing selfless service and dedication to shaping the moral and spiritual development of their learners.

The event, held at Uganda Martyrs Cathedral in Nyangole, Tororo, on Saturday, 1st November 2025, under the theme "Teach to Produce Saints of Our Time," brought together hundreds of classroom teachers and catechists from Catholic institutions across the Bukedi, Bugisu, and Sebei sub-regions.

The Archbishop's address comes amid ongoing industrial action by teachers nationwide seeking salary increases. In this context, Archbishop Obbo framed the role of teachers within a framework of faith and service, drawing inspiration from the lives of saints.

"In sainthood, we see victory, and when we win, we triumph because saints are holy people who have struggled from unholiness to holiness. They serve as models for us because they, too, were sinners but willingly surrendered themselves to the service of God and others. You have come here to strengthen and reflect on your life," he stated.

He further reminded both classroom and faith educators that their vocation calls them to "form and transform the people around them daily."

He urged them to dedicate themselves to their work unconditionally, stating,

"Do it with all your heart, and God will reward you. Don't attach yourselves to what will end, but think about the divine life when we leave this earth."

The Archbishop added, "You are models of faith and models for life. That's why most children will look up to you as examples of good people."

Echoing the Archbishop's sentiments, Moses Musingo Maena, assistant commissioner of secondary school education from the Ministry of Education and Sports, cautioned teachers against prioritising material acquisitions over the holistic development of learners.

"Today, we live in a world where success is increasingly measured in material acquisitions. As teachers, we shouldn't let our learners grow up to be defined by and limited to these corporeal aspects," he said.

Henry Otim, representing the Uganda Episcopal Conference / Uganda Catholic Secretariat's department of education, emphasised the importance of teacher preparedness.

He stated that teachers "must be very carefully prepared so that they may be skilled in the art of teaching, imbued with the spirit of Christ and possess both secular and religious knowledge suited to their role."

The Archdiocesan Teachers' Day also provided an opportunity for shared reflection and inspiration.

Prossy Atai, a teacher at St Peter's College, Tororo, expressed appreciation for the recognition the Archdiocesan Education Commission gave to the role of teachers in moulding values and morals, adding, "We find great enrichment in such gatherings because it inspires us and we share as we interact."

Fr Romanus Olweny, chairperson of the Association of Catholic Education Institutions (ACEI)-Tororo, encouraged teachers to persevere in their calling, even when their efforts may go unnoticed.

"Never mind that your efforts sometimes appear unrecognised. You get the consolation that you do not depend on human approval, for your function is a divinely ordained one," Fr. Romanus affirmed, concluding that it is up to the teachers to establish their level in society through purpose-driven action.

Beatrice Akware Lumonya, headteacher of Tororo Girls' School, highlighted the significance of prayer in the classroom, urging teachers to always find time to pray with their learners.

"For in moments of shared prayers, the bond between teacher and learner becomes holy. Praying teaches humility, unity and trust in God's providence," she stated.

Fr Jude Ochan, catechists' chaplain of the Archdiocese of Tororo, reinforced the crucial role of catechists in imparting faith while urging them to encourage others to join the vocation.

"Do not let the children belong to you only at the time of preparation for sacraments; teach tirelessly and enrol even those who claim to have 'finished' just because they received sacraments, when their ability to explain what they believe is questionable," the Chaplain appealed.

The event also included the recognition and reward of retired teachers from Tororo Archdiocese schools. This was done by the Archbishop for the good service they rendered.