Lectures at public universities across Kenya have been halted indefinitely following a strike called by the University Academic Staff Union (UASU).
The lecturers, led by UASU Secretary General Constantine Wasonga, are demanding that the government address their grievances as laid out in the 2012-2025 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), which includes overdue pay adjustments, enhanced benefits, and improved working conditions.
The lecturers expressed frustration that despite previous negotiations and a formal return-to-work formula, the government has yet to honor its commitments.
Wasonga emphasized that university lecturers have endured years of unfulfilled promises, and this time they are determined to continue their strike until their full dues are paid and the terms of the CBA are met.
“We won’t be returning to our lecture halls until the government fulfills its commitment,” Wasonga declared, emphasizing that all classes will remain suspended.
He accused vice-chancellors of playing a major role in the crisis by allegedly blocking efforts to secure fair remuneration and benefits for university staff, claiming they have consistently disregarded lecturers’ welfare.
The impact of the strike has been significant, with thousands of students left without classes and critical research projects disrupted.
Many students have voiced concerns over potential delays in completing their studies and disruptions to their academic plans.
Parents, too, are urging a swift resolution, as they worry about the extended cost implications of prolonged study periods for their children.
Meanwhile, several public university administrators have expressed concern over the economic strain and logistical challenges the strike may cause.
They have urged both the government and the union to find a solution that considers both the lecturers’ demands and the long-term sustainability of the university system.
The Ministry of Education has yet to respond to the strike officially, but insiders indicate that meetings between the ministry, Treasury officials, and university administrators are underway.
The outcome of these discussions will likely influence whether the government can make the necessary budget adjustments to meet the lecturers’ demands.
UASU has affirmed that no lecturers will return to classrooms until the government takes immediate action, emphasizing the urgency of implementing the CBA to ensure that academic staff receive fair compensation.
Wasonga reiterated the lecturers’ commitment to the strike, saying, “We are standing firm.
No don will appear in lecture halls until our welfare is fully addressed.”
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