The ongoing strike by university lecturers and non-teaching staff in Kenya has prompted the government to take decisive action, establishing an inter-ministerial committee aimed at resolving the impasse. This development comes as public universities across the country have faced disruption for over a week, with classes suspended due to the industrial action initiated by the Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU) and the Kenya Universities Staff Union (KUSU).
In a press conference held after a meeting with union leaders, Labour and Social Protection Cabinet Secretary Dr. Alfred Mutua issued a clear ultimatum to the newly formed committee, instructing them to devise a return-to-work formula by the end of tomorrow. Dr.
Mutua emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that the government is committed to bringing the strike to a swift conclusion.
During the meeting, attended by key figures including UASU Secretary General Dr. Constantine Wasonga and KUSU Secretary General Dr. Charles Mukhwaya, both unions expressed a willingness to engage in dialogue but maintained their position that they would not return to work until the government fulfills its commitments. Dr. Mutua acknowledged the unions’ concerns and highlighted the government’s readiness to negotiate.
The inter-ministerial committee will include representatives from several governmental bodies, including the Ministry of Labour, the Ministry of Education, the National Treasury, the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC), and public universities, alongside members from the unions. This collaborative approach aims to address the key issues raised by the unions and facilitate an agreement that allows staff to resume their duties.
As the strike continues, the government’s efforts to mediate reflect a broader commitment to restoring normalcy in the education sector, ensuring that students can return to their studies without further delay. The negotiations scheduled for tomorrow are viewed as a critical step in resolving the ongoing crisis in Kenya’s public universities.