“Learning Resumes Now,” Union Announces After Seven-Week University Strike Settlement

Students in Kenya’s public universities can finally return to class. The Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU) called off a seven-week strike that had halted learning nationwide. The strike left thousands of students anxious and disrupted academic schedules.

The breakthrough came after a high-level meeting on Tuesday, November 4, at the Ministry of Education’s Jogoo House B offices. Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba Migos chaired the talks. UASU Secretary-General Constantine Wasonga attended, along with senior officials from the Kenya Universities Staff Union (KUSU) and the Kenya Union of Domestic, Hotels, Educational Institutions, Hospitals and Allied Workers (KUDHEIHA). Higher Education Principal Secretary Beatrice Inyangala and representatives from the Inter-Public Universities Councils Consultative Forum (IPUCCF) were also present.

The discussions focused on delayed payment of KSh 7.9 billion in salary arrears owed to lecturers. The government agreed to pay the arrears in phases. Union leaders confirmed the deal. Lecturers immediately returned to work. Students welcomed the news and expressed relief that learning would resume.

The strike had disrupted classes, exams, and research activities. It placed pressure on both students and university staff. Many feared losing academic time and falling behind in their programs. With the agreement in place, universities can now work to catch up.

Cabinet Secretary Migos described the resolution as a step toward stronger cooperation between the government and university staff. He urged timely payment of salaries and continuous dialogue to prevent future disruptions. Union leaders praised the government’s commitment and called on members to resume work promptly.

The end of the strike restores normalcy across public universities. It brings hope to students, lecturers, and administrators alike. Academic activities will now continue smoothly. Classes, research, and exams are set to resume. The resolution signals a positive new chapter for higher education in Kenya.