Academic Crisis Hits Kenyan Public Universities as Lecturers Strike Persists

Academic Crisis Hits Kenyan Public Universities as Lecturers Strike Persists.

Kenya’s public universities are facing a severe academic disruption, leaving thousands of students uncertain about their educational future.

The crisis, caused by a standoff over a new funding model and a prolonged lecturers’ strike, has brought learning activities to a standstill.

The disruption has caused significant mental distress among students. Members of the Elimu Bora Working Group have reported that many learners are unsure if they will complete their coursework or sit for exams as scheduled. Graduation plans have also been derailed, leaving students and their families in limbo.

The ongoing lecturers’ strike, now in its fourth week, has intensified the situation. Student representatives are urging immediate intervention to resolve the impasse, highlighting the immense financial and emotional strain on students and their families.

Concerns Over Academic Quality

Student leaders, such as Emmanuel Magawa, emphasized that the quality of a semester depends on adequate contact hours between students and lecturers.

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The lack of regular classes undermines the academic integrity of the current semester, putting students’ future progress at risk.

Adding to the strain, many parents and guardians, already struggling to finance university education, are now burdened with additional expenses due to the extended stay of their children in school.

Lecturers’ Demands and Government Standstill

The University Academic Staff Union (UASU), which leads the strike, has accused the government of failing to honor a return-to-work formula agreed upon after a previous strike was suspended in September.

UASU Secretary-General Constantine Wesonga criticized the government for misrepresenting salary increments, insisting that union members will not accept manipulation of their dues.

This is the second strike within two months, further deepening the crisis. Students now fear losing an entire semester if the standoff continues.

Students Demand Government Intervention

Frustrated by the prolonged deadlock, students have called on the government to take urgent action.

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Representatives, including David Karani of the Elimu Bora Working Group, stressed the importance of a timely resolution, urging the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Labor, and other relevant bodies to prioritize the issue.

With the academic year nearing its end, student leaders have warned that failure to address the crisis will jeopardize their academic progress and future prospects.

Academic Crisis Hits Kenyan Public Universities as Lecturers Strike Persists.

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