Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba has said the ongoing university staff strike will soon be resolved, noting that the government and unions are closing in on a Return-to-Work Formula to restore normalcy across public universities.
Speaking after a high-level meeting with union officials on Tuesday afternoon at Jogoo House B, Ogamba said constructive engagement had paved the way for a breakthrough. The talks brought together the Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU), Kenya Universities Staff Union (KUSU), and KUDHEIHA, alongside the Principal Secretary for Higher Education, Dr Beatrice Muganda Inyangala, and members of the Inter-Public Universities Councils’ Consultative Forum (IPUCCF).
“Our deliberations aimed at agreeing on a Return-to-Work Formula with the unions to ensure that universities resume normal operations promptly,” said Ogamba. “We are determined to protect the academic calendar and safeguard the welfare of both staff and students.”
The consultations followed a morning meeting convened by the National Treasury and Economic Planning CS Hon. John Mbadi, under the patronage of the National Assembly Education Committee, signalling a coordinated government effort to end the strike.
“This process is not about winners and losers; it’s about restoring stability in our higher education system,” Ogamba noted. “Both the ministry and the unions share the same goal — ensuring that learning continues without unnecessary disruption.”
The CS said that the government was working with the Treasury to address pending financial concerns and ensure that solutions remain fiscally sustainable.
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“We are exploring feasible options for implementing the Collective Bargaining Agreement transparently and sustainably,” he said.
“Our goal is to secure a fair outcome that respects the commitment of our lecturers and staff while maintaining economic prudence.”
Dr Inyangala, who accompanied Ogamba, reiterated the ministry’s dedication to dialogue and lasting resolution.
“We recognise the sacrifices made by lecturers, non-teaching staff, and students. The government is fully committed to a fair and lasting settlement that restores confidence in public universities,” she affirmed.
As the strike enters its sixth week, universities continue to face mounting academic backlogs and financial strain. However, Ogamba assured the nation that closure is within reach.
The ministry has pledged to announce the agreed framework once consultations with all stakeholders conclude.
By Joseph Mambili
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