Lecturers and university staff have officially suspended their strike after reaching a significant agreement with the government, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle for better working conditions in higher education. This resolution comes after weeks of disruptions.

The strike, which began in response to longstanding grievances, focused on several critical issues. Among these were demands for increased pay, improved job security, and better working conditions, including more manageable workloads.

The lecturers argued that the current compensation was not reflective of the increasing demands placed on them and the rising cost of living. Many expressed concerns about the deterioration of working conditions in universities, which they believed was compromising the quality of education they could provide.

The government’s agreement is seen as a positive step towards addressing these concerns. While specific details of the deal are still forthcoming, it is reported to include a significant pay increase for staff and commitments to enhance funding for universities. This funding is crucial, as many institutions have faced budget cuts that have strained resources and impacted the quality of education. The agreement is expected to provide the necessary support to help universities maintain and improve their standards.

The suspension of the strike will allow academic activities to resume, providing relief to students who have been affected by the disruptions. Many students expressed frustration over the loss of classes and the uncertainty surrounding their academic progress. With the strike now suspended, institutions can focus on catching up on missed lectures and examinations, aiming to minimize the impact on students’ education.

Furthermore, this agreement may pave the way for more constructive dialogue between university staff and the government in the future. Both parties recognize the need for ongoing discussions to ensure that the issues facing higher education are addressed comprehensively. The collaboration is seen as essential not only for the well-being of the staff but also for the overall quality of higher education in the country.

The suspension of the strike marks a hopeful turning point for lecturers and university staff, who have long sought recognition and improvement in their working conditions. The government’s willingness to engage and reach an agreement reflects a commitment to fostering a more supportive environment for educators, ultimately benefiting students and the wider educational landscape.

Further details of the agreement will likely emerge, shedding light on the specifics of  the commitments made.

Lecturers and staff at Kibabii University, along with 34 other public universities in Kenya, commenced a nationwide strike on September 18, 2024, disrupting learning activities across the institutions.

Reason for the Strike;

The primary reason behind the strike is the failure of the government to finalize, register, and implement the 2021-2025 CBA, which was meant to address salary and allowance adjustments for university staff.

Despite proposals being tabled as far back as 2020, little progress has been made, and the unions accuse the government of neglecting university staff while other public sector employees have received salary increments and improved benefits. This discrepancy has eroded the purchasing power of lecturers and other university employees, exacerbated by the declining value of the Kenyan shilling, increased taxation, and the rising cost of living.

The Chairman of KUSU Kibabii branch Prince Augustine Wafula asked the government to put in place proper ways to coup the alleged strike.

“We are urging the government to put in place robust measures to actually switch that they have addressed these issues. We need to fight, we strike a deal before these things end”, said Mr Wafula.

The unions, representing around 30,000 employees, argue that university workers are being unfairly treated compared to their counterparts in other sectors. For example, while public servants have received salary increases ranging between 7% and 10%, university employees have been excluded from similar adjustments.

This has heightened the frustration within the academic community, prompting UASU Secretary-General Constantine Wasonga and KUSU Secretary-General Charles Mukwaya to declare that university staff can no longer bear the burden of economic hardship caused by government inaction​

Impact on students;

The ongoing strike at Kibabii University has had significant negative effects on students. Academic programs have come to a halt, leaving students unable to attend classes, access lectures, or complete coursework. With the indefinite strike, many students fear delays in their graduation timelines, particularly those who were close to completing their studies or sitting for their final exams.