University Lecturers to End Strike after sh9.7b CBA

By Dorothy Yegon

Universities may possibly resume studies after government settled on sh9.7 billion Collective Bargaining Agreement(CBA) with lecturers, resolving the long-standing dispute.

The announcement was made during the 13th Chuka University graduation ceremony in Tharaka Nithi County.

Presiding over the ceremony, Dr Beatrice Inyangala, the Higher Education and Research Principal Secretary, revealed that the government has entered into talks with the University Academic Staff Union(UASU) to finalise a return to work formula.

"We had talks with the Union, and we have accepted their Sh9.7 billion offer to settle the collective bargaining agreement," Dr Inyangala said.

She confirmed that the discussions on the return to work formula were ongoing with the hope that lecturers would return to work immediately.

Dr Inyangala also acknowledged that despite the strike by lecturers, 18 universities across the country continued to provide lessons standing firm in commitment to students' education.

Chuka University 13th graduation ceremony. Photo/Courtesy 

The PS highlighted the significance of the graduation theme; "Enhancing Global and Sustainable Development through quality Higher Education Research and Enterprise" noting its aligment with the Kenya Kwanza Development Agenda. 

She pointed at that president William Rutto introduction of the Student-Centred University Funding Model model was designed to improve support for students and expand access to university education.

In separate address Chuka University Vice Chancellor Prof Henry Mutembei emphasised the Institution focus on Fiscal Stability.

He outlined efforts to implement strict internal budgetary controls to endure balanced budgets and streamline processes that prioritize expenditures supporting the university core mandate.

He reiterated the university commitment to supporting the government agenda of making education accessible and affordable for all.