University of Nairobi Vice Chancellor Margaret Hutchinson has urged striking lecturers to resume work after the Employment and Labour Relations Court declared the action unprotected failure to which disciplinary measures will be instituted.
Through a press statement the VC stated that the ongoing industrial action has significantly disrupted learning across most public universities in Kenya.
The VC further indicated that “The strike has not only impacted teaching and learning activities but has also affected research, community service, and the general operations of the University,”
“While the University Management fully acknowledges the importance of the concerns raised by the academic staff, we remain committed to addressing these issues through collaborative efforts with all stakeholders involved,” said Hutchinson.
The matter which has been prosecuted in the employment and labor relations court, was declared unprotected. Currently, the issues are under review by an inter-ministerial negotiations committee.
“I remain hopeful that these matters will be resolved amicably and in the best interests of all parties. I must stress the importance of ongoing dialogue between UASU and the relevant authorities. It is crucial that UASU continues to engage in the negotiations in good faith and remain committed to the resolution process,” she reiterated.
“The University has resolved that all academic staff of the University of Nairobi should resume their duties immediately.”
The statement further indicated “Consequent to the orders of the court , Deans of Faculties and Chairs of Departments have been instructed to conduct daily roll calls and submit the data to the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), with a copy to the Vice Chancellor. Any faculty member found not fulfilling their employment obligations will face appropriate action as stipulated in their employment contracts and under the law”
“No individual will be permitted to incite or intimidate those wishing to carry out their duties during this time,” Hutchinson stated.
On October 22, 2024, the UASU National Secretary General announced a seven-day notice for a nationwide strike across all public universities, effective from October 29, 2024.
This action followed the failure by the parties to agree to:Agreement, signed on October 28, 2019, between UASU and the Inter-Public Universities Councils Consultative Forum (IPUCCF).
“I remain available for consultations and discussions as we work together to restore industrial harmony at the University of Nairobi. It is imperative that we remain united and positive during these challenging times. I extend my heartfelt thanks to all our students for their patience and dedication, which continue to make the University of Nairobi a globally competitive University transforming society,” Hutchinson appealed.
The VC also encouraged the staff to remain committed to the University’s mission of providing quality education that meets the aspirations of both the local and global community.
