Lecturers Reject Government Offer, Vow to Continue Strike Until Full KSh 7.9 Billion Is Paid

 

By Sheila Keter 

Public university lecturers have rejected the government’s latest offer to end the ongoing nationwide strike, insisting they will not resume work until the full KSh 7.9 billion owed to them is paid in full.

The lecturers, represented by the Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU) and the Kenya Universities Staff Union (KUSU), dismissed the government’s proposal of about KSh 3.5 billion, saying it falls short of what was agreed upon in the 2017–2021 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

Speaking during a press briefing in Nairobi, UASU officials vowed to continue with the industrial action, which has now entered its sixth week, paralyzing learning in all public universities.

“We shall not call off the strike unless we sign a binding agreement and the KSh 7.9 billion is paid in full,” said one union leader.

The lecturers accused the government of failing to honour the CBA, which they say was meant to harmonize pay and improve working conditions for academic staff. They also claimed that the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) has been frustrating negotiations, accusing it of “misguiding the government” and calling for its disbandment.

Education Cabinet Secretary Migos Ogamba acknowledged the ongoing crisis but defended the government’s position, saying discussions are still underway to find a lasting solution.

“Our learners are suffering, not because the government has refused to pay, but because there’s a difference in the figures being demanded,” said CS Ogamba during a tour in Nyamira County.

The Cabinet Secretary urged lecturers to return to work as negotiations continue, assuring them that the government remains committed to meeting its obligations.

At Moi University, the lecturers’ branch also rejected a similar offer from the institution’s council, insisting they will not resume teaching until all pending dues, salaries, and promotions are settled.

The stalemate now threatens to prolong the closure of public universities across the country, leaving thousands of students stranded and academic calendars in disarray.

Despite growing pressure from parents and students for classes to resume, union leaders maintain that the strike will continue until the government honours its full financial commitment.