UASU Issues Lecturers Strike Notice Over Salary Delays.
Lecturers from the Technical University of Kenya (TUK) have announced their intention to go on strike starting Tuesday, January 14, if the government does not address their grievances. This decision comes as a response to unmet financial obligations by the university and the Ministry of Education.
On Sunday, January 12, the university staff demanded the immediate payment of their December 2024 salaries.
TUK officials emphasized that the Ministry of Education and the University Council must fulfill their financial commitments without delay. They also called for the resolution of other employer-related financial obligations.
The lecturers cautioned that if their demands remain unmet, operations at TUK would be paralyzed. They warned of an impending shutdown of the institution, which would affect academic and administrative activities.
Planned Protest Actions
To escalate their concerns, the lecturers vowed to hold a major demonstration on January 14, 2025. They plan to deliver petitions to the National Assembly, the Treasury, and the Ministry of Education.
The lecturers reported that they have already notified security agencies about their plans and expect adequate security during the demonstration.
The University Academic Staff Union (UASU) criticized the government for failing to honor a prior agreement. On November 23, 2024, an agreement had been reached to end a 24-day strike that affected 35 public universities and two constituent colleges.
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This agreement included a directive from the Higher Education Principal Secretary, Beatrice Inyangala, mandating universities to implement a pay increase and settle arrears for October and November.
Collective Bargaining Agreement
The lecturers’ grievances also stem from the delayed implementation of the 2021-2025 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). Valued at Ksh9.7 billion, the CBA was to be executed in three phases. However, non-compliance with this agreement has reignited unrest among university staff.
The lecturers expressed their frustration, stating that they have no capacity to accept further delays or compromises.
They reiterated that their demands must be resolved promptly to avoid disruption of university activities. With the looming industrial action, the government faces increased pressure to address the financial challenges in public universities.
UASU Issues Lecturers Strike Notice Over Salary Delays.
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