Kenya’s higher education system is currently facing a profound crisis, as public universities grapple with funding challenges, labour disputes, and widespread student dissatisfaction. The simultaneous emergence of these issues has cast a spotlight on deeper systemic flaws that continue to hinder the growth and stability of the country’s higher education sector.
At the heart of the controversy is the new band-based funding model introduced by the government. This approach, which allocates financial support based on student performance and economic background, has sparked criticism from both students and university staff. Rocha Madzao, President of the University of Nairobi Students Council, has been particularly vocal in opposing the model, calling for the disbandment of bands 4 and 5. According to Madzao, “These bands have restricted access to education for many students, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds”
The discontent over the funding model quickly escalated into student protests, with thousands demanding that the government review the changes. Students argue that the model creates inequities and further widens the gap between the rich and the poor in accessing higher education. A two-week ultimatum has been issued to the government, with students threatening to take to the streets if their demands are not met.
Meanwhile, labour disputes have added fuel to the fire. University staff, including lecturers and non-teaching staff, have been engaged in prolonged strikes over issues such as low pay, delayed statutory remittances, and discriminatory medical coverage. The strikes, affecting 35 public universities, have disrupted learning, leaving students in limbo as exams were postponed. UASU Secretary General Constantine Wasonga lamented the government’s failure to honor agreements reached as far back as 2018. “We are tired of empty promises. The non-contributory medical cover promised in 2018 has never materialized, and our salaries remain stagnant,” Wasonga said.
KUSU Secretary General Charles Mukhwaya echoed similar sentiments, highlighting that despite multiple negotiation attempts, little has changed. “Our members are suffering under the rising cost of living, and yet the government refuses to take action. How long are we supposed to endure this?” he asked. These immediate challenges, however, point to broader structural issues within Kenya’s higher education system. Poor governance, underfunding, and a lack of alignment between salaries and the cost of living are exacerbating the crisis. University staff have expressed frustration over the government’s failure to implement provisions outlined in the Salaries and Remuneration Commission’s 2014 circular, which promised public sector employees benefits such as car loans and mortgage provisions—yet these benefits remain elusive for academic staff.
