Breaking News: Egerton University Shuts Down Amidst Lecturers' Strike!
It's a disruptive situation unfolding at Egerton University, where all teaching and learning have been abruptly halted. This drastic measure comes as a direct result of the ongoing industrial action by the Universities’ Academic Staff Union (UASU) and the Kenya Universities Staff Union (KUSU), which has brought the institution's operations to a standstill.
In an official notice dated November 4, 2025, the university administration announced the suspension, citing the strike's adverse impact on normal university activities. Students were promptly instructed to vacate the premises by 2 p.m. on Wednesday, November 5, 2025.
The decision, formalized during the University Senate's 580th meeting on November 4, 2025, underscores the severity of the situation. The notice, signed by the Registrar of Academic Affairs, Prof. Mwanarusi Saidi, also included an apology for the inconvenience caused by the industrial action.
But here's where it gets controversial... This directive, however, doesn't apply to all students. Medical and Law students, along with international and postgraduate students, are exempt from the order.
The university has promised to announce the resumption of teaching and learning via its official website and social media channels. This shutdown is set against the backdrop of a nationwide dispute between lecturers' unions and the government over the payment of a staggering Ksh.7.9 billion in arrears.
The government, represented by CS Mbadi, proposed paying the arrears in two installments spread across the 2025/2026 and 2026/2027 financial years, citing improved economic stability. And this is the part most people miss... This proposal was immediately rejected by both UASU and KUSU, who are adamant that lecturers will not return to work until the full amount is paid upfront.
UASU Secretary General Constantine Wesonga has further insisted on the full implementation of the 2025–2029 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) before learning resumes. Education CS Julius Ogamba has acknowledged the ongoing stalemate, noting the unions' rejection of the ministry's proposal, despite assurances that the funds weren't budgeted for in the current financial year.
The strike's impact is widespread, affecting public universities across the country. The Treasury and the Ministry of Education are urging the unions to consider a more realistic settlement plan, given Kenya's current fiscal constraints.
What do you think? Do you believe the government's installment plan is a reasonable compromise, or should the unions hold firm on their demands? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
