Yumbe teachers face disciplinary action over illegal self-transfers
Some of the teachers who were transferred checking the transfer list in Yumbe District in February 2024. PHOTO/ROBERT ELEMA.
What you need to know:
- Some teachers claim health and personal challenges pushed them to relocate.
A section of primary school teachers in Yumbe District is under scrutiny for engaging in illegal and unauthorized transfers between schools.
Reports indicate that some teachers, frustrated by delays in receiving official transfer letters, took matters into their own hands and relocated to new schools without formal approval.
Speaking to the Monitor on March 26, Mr Isaac Adebuga, headteacher of Kechuru Primary School, confirmed that one of his teachers had self-transferred to another school despite no official clearance.
He stated that he had endorsed the teacher’s transfer application, which was submitted to the District Education Office (DEO) for action.
"We were assured by the DEO’s office that if the teacher was transferred, a replacement would be provided. However, since the term started, the teacher has not returned to school, leaving a staffing gap," he said.
A similar case was reported at Midigo Primary School, where headteacher Mr Hassan Abdulai Amin revealed that three teachers had applied for transfers this year.
"It is true that I endorsed the letters for the three teachers who had applied for transfer. However, instead of reporting to their new stations, they have been waiting for their transfer letters at home," he said.
Reasons behind the transfers
Some teachers claim health and personal challenges pushed them to relocate.
Mr Chandiga Ahumed, a teacher from Kechuru Primary School, said he applied for transfer due to illness and the lack of family support at his previous station.
"I developed a serious illness, and my family had to come and pick me from school. I applied for a transfer, hoping to be posted to a nearby school where my family could assist me," he explained.
After presenting his case to the DEO’s office, he was advised to move to Nyori Primary School, where he is currently teaching, despite not receiving an official transfer letter.
Education officials speak out
District Education Officer (DEO) Mr Rasul Luriga issued a stern warning to teachers who relocated without formal approval.
"We haven’t processed transfers this year, nor have we instructed any teacher to move to a new station. Our official transfers always come with written letters. Teachers should not drag us into their confusion," he stated.
He acknowledged that some teachers had valid reasons for transfer but said their requests were still under review.
"We are studying the situation, and any critical cases will be handled at the end of the first term. Right now, sudden transfers would disrupt learning," he added.
Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Mr Moses Chuna Kapolon said unauthorized transfers have become a widespread issue in the district, causing staffing disruptions.
"I have issued a circular on this matter and directed the Inspector of Schools and Education Officers to compile a report. Once I receive the findings, disciplinary action will be taken against teachers who self-transferred," he warned.
While the exact number of affected teachers is still being compiled, unverified reports suggest the figure could be around 100.
Mr Kapolon further cautioned that teachers who refuse to return to their original schools will face serious consequences, including: official warnings, salary suspensions, possible interdiction or termination.
The district is now taking steps to restore order in teacher deployment and ensure schools remain adequately staffed to avoid disrupting learning.
