The Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU) and the Kenya Universities Staff Union (KUSU) strike has entered its second week, severely disrupting learning across public universities in Kenya. The strike, driven by demands for salary increments, allowances, and unresolved issues related to Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs), continues to affect students and staff.
To address the ongoing disruption, Labour and Social Protection Cabinet Secretary Dr. Alfred Mutua has engaged union officials in talks aimed at resolving the deadlock. A committee has been formed, comprising representatives from several government ministries, public universities, and the two unions, with the goal of negotiating a return-to-work agreement.
“We cannot allow these matters to fester and disrupt the education of thousands of students,” Dr. Mutua said, stressing the importance of resolving the standoff swiftly.
The inter-ministerial committee has been tasked with addressing the unions’ demands, particularly salary increments and allowances, which the unions argue have not been fully addressed in previous agreements. The discussions also focus on ensuring that CBAs are honoured once signed.
“My ministry is committed to fairness and balance in negotiations, and it is crucial that once Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) are signed, they are honoured. If challenges arise, workers must be informed in a timely and transparent manner,” Dr. Mutua added.
The government has expressed optimism about resolving the strike, with negotiations expected to begin immediately. The unions are also hopeful that the talks will result in a quick resolution, bringing the disruption to an end.
“The unions are seeking resolutions on salary increments and allowances, alongside other issues outlined in the CBA. The inter-ministerial committee will commence discussions tomorrow, and we will work diligently until we reach a resolution,” Dr. Mutua stated.
Both the government and union officials have committed to working towards a fair agreement that addresses the key issues raised by UASU and KUSU. Students and staff across the affected public universities are hopeful that the negotiations will bring an end to the ongoing strike and restore normalcy to the academic calendar.
Negotiations are expected to continue over the coming days, with both sides aiming for a swift conclusion that satisfies all parties involved.
