The standoff between lecturers and public universities continues to paralyse learning as both sides remain entrenched in their positions.
On September 23, the Inter-Public Universities Councils’ Consultative Forum (IPUCCF), chaired by Taita Taveta University Vice-Chancellor Prof Fred Simiyu Barasa, told a court-appointed conciliator that arrears under the 2021–2025 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) had been fully settled.
“The arrears due under Phase Two of the 2021–2025 CBA have been fully paid to all eligible unionisable staff of UASU, KUSU and KUDHEIHA Workers,” Prof Barasa wrote.
IPUCCF pointed to progress, noting that the Kenya Union of Domestic, Hotels, Educational Institutions and Hospital Workers (KUDHEIHA) had suspended its strike after receiving payment.
“This issue no longer constitutes a dispute for all intents and purposes,” the memo stated.
But the Universities’ Academic Staff Union (UASU) disputes this position. In a proposal dated September 22, UASU emphasised that unresolved issues remain, particularly the enforcement of earlier CBAs.
READ ALSO:
Kisumu police hunt criminals who assaulted and injured Maseno University students near hostels
“The conciliator is incapable of re-opening the Employment and Labour Relations Court decision… the employer must comply with the judgement of 15th January 2021,” UASU argued.
The union also raised concerns over ongoing negotiations for the 2025–2029 CBA. UASU accused universities of bypassing legal procedures by engaging without the Salaries and Remuneration Commission’s (SRC) formal advice.
Citing Justice Mwilu, the union reminded parties that, “No valid salary and/or benefit of a state or public officer shall ensue from a process that ignores the roles of SRC.”
Meanwhile, IPUCCF insisted it was acting within the law. “IPUCCF reiterates its commitment to the conciliation process and affirms that it will abide by the statutory processes guiding CBA negotiations and implementation in the Public University Sector,” Prof Barasa assured.
Student leaders have expressed growing concern as the deadlock threatens to extend into exam season. Universities are warning of delayed academic calendars, while parents worry about the potential for wasted tuition fees.
Both sides are expected to return to the negotiation table later this week, but with each clinging to sharply different interpretations of the dispute, the path to compromise remains uncertain.
By Joseph Mambili
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
