The government has directed Public Universities to implement a robust academic recovery plans to revive learning following a 49-day strike by lecturers and non-teaching staff that paralysed academic operations across the country.
According to the Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba, universities will now be required to implement academic recovery plans, safeguard students’ welfare and ensure that examinations and graduations proceed without further delay.
CS Ogamba said the directive is part of the government plans to implement measures to cushion students and institutions from the effects of the closure while addressing the underlying labour disputes.
“To safeguard students from the adverse effects of the industrial action, we will institute several interventions. Universities have been tasked with implementing recovery plans and ensuring graduations and examinations proceed as scheduled,” he said.
He noted that the Ministry of Education had instructed universities to adopt academic recovery strategies and financial safeguards, reaffirming that no student should be left academically or financially disadvantaged.
The CS was answering to the issue raised in Parliament by Samburu West MP Naisula Lesuuda, who demanded answers on the steps being taken to protect students’ welfare and academic progress.
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“Parents and students are deeply worried. Rent, upkeep and academic progress have all been affected. Some students were due to graduate but now remain uncertain about when they will complete their studies,” Lesuuda said.
National Assembly Committee on Education chairman Julius Melly said the Committee’s priority was to ensure a lasting solution that protects both students and university staff.
“Students cannot continue to suffer every time a strike is called. We are ready to facilitate dialogue and push for an implementable payment plan,” Melly said.
The lecturers strike came to an end after the Unions and the government stroke a deal to settled the Ksh 7.9 billion arrears in two phases at 50 per cent each.
The lecturers had raised concerns over the accumulated arrears which back dated to the 2021 CBAs.
By Juma Ndigo
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