The Universities’ Academic Staff Union (UASU) has announced a seven-day strike at Moi University, warning about delayed salaries and unfulfilled agreements. In a statement dated August 12, 2025, UASU Secretary General Constantine Opiyo said all union members at the university will withdraw their labour until the Return-To-Work Formula is fully implemented.

The union is demanding that salaries for June and July 2025 be paid according to the 2021-2025 Collective Bargaining Agreement rates. It also wants the Return-To-Work Formula, signed with the University Council on November 30, 2024, to be honored without further delays.

UASU further insists that clauses on staff promotion, salary reviews, and retirement age under the 2021-2025 National Collective Bargaining Agreement be fully respected.

The union also emphasizes the protection of workers’ rights and freedoms under Article 41 and Chapter 4 of the Constitution.

The strike is scheduled to begin on August 20, 2025, if the university management fails to meet the union’s demands.

Moi University has faced a management crisis in recent months, resulting in financial losses and repeated strikes, causing frustration among students and parents.

Earlier this year, in January 2025, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba inaugurated a new university council, hoping the fresh leadership would restore order and stability to the institution.

CS Ogamba explained that the old council was dismissed due to poor management that had left the university in disarray.

He added that the new team was expected to revive the institution’s reputation, ensure normal learning, and tackle governance challenges that had previously hindered academic progress.

The repeated delays in salary payments and pending agreements have compounded the unrest at Moi University, highlighting ongoing challenges in higher education management in Kenya.

With the strike looming, students and staff are anxiously awaiting a resolution, as the country watches how university leadership and the union will resolve the dispute.

The coming week could prove crucial for Moi University, as negotiations between UASU and the university management will determine whether the strike can be avoided or if classes will be disrupted.