Two Months On: Moi University’s First-Year Students Yet to Begin Classes.
First-year students at Moi University remain without classes since their admission in August, due to a standoff between striking staff and university management.
The ongoing strike, which involves teaching and non-teaching staff, has caused significant delays and frustration among new students who expected to begin their studies promptly.
Students reported to Moi University on August 26, 2024, but less than two weeks later, the university closed due to the strike. Many students, such as Hannah Bula, a Bachelor of Education student, regret joining the institution.
Hannah expressed disappointment in not yet attending a single class and uncertainty about when learning will resume. Similarly, Reuben Mbugua, a Communications Technology student, shared frustrations over the lack of orientation or clear communication.
Another student, Stephen Odhiambo, has tried unsuccessfully to transfer to another university, stating he would leave immediately if accepted elsewhere.
Despite the disruption, student leaders, including Vincent Tarus, President of the Moi University Student Organization (MUSO), are hopeful that classes will resume soon.
Following discussions with management, Tarus expressed optimism that operations would restart without further delays.
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He acknowledged that the strike impacted the academic calendar but urged management to implement measures allowing students to recover lost time.
Continued Uncertainty and University Reopening
As students gradually returned on Monday, tensions persisted, fueled by conflicting information. A parliamentary committee had directed management and staff unions to finalize a return-to-work agreement.
However, disagreements continued, with Kenya University Staff Union (KUSU) members clashing with management at the main entrance, chanting against the Vice-Chancellor.
Union officials disputed a memo issued by the Senate, which directed all students and employees to resume activities, describing it as ineffective without a formal return-to-work agreement.
Staff union leaders, including KUDHEIHA Chairperson Eunice Tarus, accused management of misleading students and the public.
She stated that recent announcements regarding a government bailout of KSh3.5 billion were unfounded, as the funds were not yet in the university’s accounts.
Tarus questioned the university’s commitment to resolving the situation and demanded compliance with a legally binding return-to-work formula.
Additionally, she urged President William Ruto to intervene, stressing that education should be prioritized similarly to political matters.
Faculty and Management Tensions
Faculty members also voiced concerns about returning to work without salary arrears. Kiswahili lecturer Kenga Mumbo criticized the re-opening announcement as a public relations strategy aimed at appeasing government interests, stating he would not resume teaching until his salary was paid.
According to Mumbo, the Senate’s reopening decision lacked consultation with the University Academic Staff Union (UASU) and overlooked parliamentary directions.
Last week, a National Assembly Education Committee led by MP Julius Melly visited the campus and reported dire conditions, noting dilapidated facilities and unkempt surroundings.
They recommended dissolving the university’s current management, led by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Isaac Sanga Kosgey, and appointing a caretaker team to prevent further decline.
The committee’s report described the university’s infrastructure as severely neglected, with leaking hostels and obstructed pathways.
Summary of Challenges and Required Action
| Key Issue | Details |
|---|---|
| Delayed Start for New Students | New students have not attended classes since August 2024. |
| Staff Strike | Staff demand resolution on pay arrears and working conditions. |
| Union-Mgmt. Conflict | Union leaders dispute management’s reopening announcements. |
| Parliamentary Oversight | Education committee calls for management overhaul. |
| Infrastructure Issues | Dilapidated hostels, unmaintained grounds, and poor facilities. |
Conclusion
The ongoing crisis at Moi University has left first-year students in limbo and revealed deep-seated challenges in university governance and infrastructure.
As students, staff, and leaders await decisive action, calls for transparent management and prioritized funding continue.
ALSO READ: Students Urged to Pursue Technical and Vocational Training
Union leaders and parliamentary representatives demand immediate reforms to ensure academic stability for all.
Two Months On: Moi University’s First-Year Students Yet to Begin Classes.
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