Vice-Chancellor of UoN instructs all staff to return to work promptly
On Tuesday, November 12, the University of Nairobi (UoN) requested its academic staff to resume work amidst the ongoing nationwide lecturers’ strike, which has now entered its third week.
The University administration, led by Acting Vice Chancellor Margaret Hutchinson, has issued a directive kindly asking all striking lecturers to promptly resume their teaching duties to avoid facing any consequences.
She reached out to the Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU), the union that initiated the nationwide strike, to engage in dialogue and uphold their dedication to the negotiation process. She then issued a prompt call for all academic staff members at the University of Nairobi to return to work without delay.
The VC has instructed deans and department chairs to perform daily attendance checks and send the information to university management for assessment.
Hutchinson cautioned that any faculty member failing to meet their job responsibilities will be subject to the necessary measures outlined in their employment agreements and by law. He stressed that those who are keen to fulfill their duties will be given the freedom to do so.
This decision has been made in light of extended interruptions in academic operations caused by the lecturers’ requests for improved working conditions, salary enhancements, and a seven to ten percent raise in basic pay, accompanied by a four percent yearly increment. The UASU is putting forward the case that they require a funding of Ksh9. 7 billion in order to carry out the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) they have concluded with the government. On the other hand, the Ministry of Education has presented an evaluation of Ksh4. 3 billion.
The interim head of the institution expressed regret that the strike has negatively impacted teaching, research, and community engagement at public universities.
She further stated that the university management recognizes the significance of the academic staff’s concerns and is dedicated to resolving them through cooperation with all parties involved.
The UASU is steadfast in their strike, which will persist until the government meets their demands.
Public university lecturers went on strike on Tuesday, October 29 due to delayed payment of salary arrears and the government’s failure to implement the 2021-2025 CBA they had agreed upon in 2021.
The planned meeting on Tuesday, involving the National Assembly Committee on Education, Vice Chancellors, and UASU officials, did not yield any results as the parties failed to reach an agreement, primarily due to the government’s delay in releasing funds for salaries.
The Committee has decided that the Ministries of Education, Labour, and National Treasury will collectively provide guidance on the government’s stance regarding the allocation of the funds.
Latest
Pepe TV is a vibrant broadcasting network dedicated to bringing you the best in global entertainment, news, and culture. We strive to deliver diverse content that keeps you informed, entertained, and connected to the world around you.
Copyright © 2024 All Rights Reserved