University Lecturers' Strike Brings Learning to a Standstill

By Bruno Aero

Family Media 

Law Writer and Jounalist

17,Sept,2025 4.34 Pm

UASU Secretary General Dr Constance Wasonga has directed a nationwide strike by university lecturers UASU,  Universities Academic Staff Union has brought public universities to a grinding halt, disrupting academic programs and research projects. The Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU) declared the strike after negotiations with the government failed to yield results.

Why the Strike

The lecturers are demanding billions of shillings in unpaid dues, citing the government's failure to implement the 2017-2021 and 2021-2025 Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs). UASU Secretary General Constantine Wasonga stated that the union has exhausted all avenues for dialogue, with the government offering only promises instead of action.

Key Demands

The UASU has outlined three key grievances:

- Failure to Implement 2021-2025 Phase Two CBA Arrears: The government owes lecturers KSh 2.73 billion for the 2025/2026 financial year.

- Negotiation and Implementation of 2025-2029 National CBA The union wants immediate negotiations, conclusion, and registration of the new CBA.

- Implementation of 2017-2021 CBA  Despite court rulings, the government has failed to implement the agreement, leaving lecturers demoralized and financially strained.

Lecturers' Resolve

Dan Mukhwana, a lecturer, emphasized that the strike will only end once the government fulfills its obligations. "Our CBA of four years ago has not been implemented. If that money isn’t paid, we are not returning to classes," he said. Wekesa added that the strike has become a means of survival for lecturers, who are forced to take to the streets due to the government's inability to meet their expectations.¹

Impact on Students

The strike is expected to cause widespread disruption, affecting thousands of students already grappling with a tight academic calendar. Many students may be forced to extend their studies or lose valuable time, impacting their future prospects.