The Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU) has announced that all public university staff will begin a strike at midnight following the government’s failure to implement a previously agreed return-to-work formula.
This action comes after months of unresolved disputes over salary increments outlined in the 2021-2025 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
The UASU had given the government a seven-day notice, which expired on October 22, 2024, citing that the promised salary adjustments of 7% to 10% have not been honored.
UASU Secretary-General Constantine Wasonga expressed the union’s frustration, stating that despite earlier agreements aimed at improving staff conditions, the government has not taken the necessary steps to fulfill its commitments.
He urged university staff to prepare for the strike, emphasizing that the unions will not accept mere promises without tangible action
The call for industrial action has heightened tensions within universities, as staff members feel increasingly anxious about their financial stability amidst rising living costs.
This situation reflects a broader struggle in Kenya’s higher education sector, where university staff have been advocating for fair pay and improved working conditions for several years.
The UASU’s previous strike was suspended after an agreement was reached with the government, but the continued lack of follow-through has led to this renewed call for action.
As the midnight deadline approaches, the potential disruption to academic activities looms large, raising concerns about the impact on students and the overall educational environment.
