Negotiations between striking university lecturers and the government have resumed, raising hopes for an end to the prolonged stalemate that has paralyzed learning across public universities. The government, which had initially insisted on a three-phase payment plan, has now softened its stance and proposed settling the Ksh.7.9 billion salary arrears in two phases.
Union officials representing lecturers say they are cautiously optimistic about the progress but will first consult their members before making any final decisions. The Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU) and the Kenya University Staff Union (KUSU) confirmed that discussions with the Ministry of Education have been more constructive this week.
“Initially, they wanted to pay it in three phases; they have narrowed it down to two phases. We are going to consult our members, and the government is also going to consult,” said UASU Secretary General Constantine Wesonga.
Will the New Offer End the 44-Day Lecturers’ Strike?
Despite the progress, the strike remains active as unions await feedback from their members. “It is only fair that we inform our members to stay put but vigilant. We give the government this opportunity because they have shown themselves ready to engage us,” said KUSU Secretary General Mukhwaya.
Both UASU and KUSU plan to convene their respective National Executive Committees to review the government’s offer before forwarding it to the National Delegates Conferences for approval. “We have agreed to burn the midnight oil, my lines are open. The government has also decided to burn the midnight oil,” Wesonga added, signaling the urgency from both sides to resolve the crisis.
Until a concrete agreement is reached, lecturers will remain on strike. “The strike is on. Members are called upon to remain vigilant as we pursue lines consulting at high levels,” Wesonga reaffirmed.
How Are Students Responding to the Ongoing Stalemate?
The continued disruption of academic programs has left thousands of students frustrated. Some have taken to the streets in solidarity with their lecturers, demanding a swift resolution. At Egerton University, students joined demonstrations, expressing anger at the government’s delayed payments.
“This is unacceptable, buana. If you don’t want us to learn, do away with education. Sio lazima tusome. Kama hamuwezi lipa lecturers, kila mutu aende kazi,” one student shouted during the protest.
As the strike stretches into its seventh week, pressure continues to mount on both the government and university unions to find a sustainable solution. With learning suspended across all public universities, the fate of thousands of students now hangs on the outcome of these renewed negotiations.
By Modester Nasimiyu
