Lecturers issue seven-day strike notice over delayed salaries

University Academic Staff Union (UASU) has issued a seven-day ultimatum to the government, threatening to initiate a strike if their full salaries are not paid promptly.

This announcement was made by UASU Secretary-General Constantine Wesonga during a press briefing that followed a National Executive Committee meeting.

Wesonga stated that the strike notice had been activated immediately, warning that public universities could experience significant disruptions starting next month. This would coincide with the return of students for the new academic term.

During the briefing, Wesonga criticised the newly implemented university funding model, describing it as ineffective and burdensome. He expressed deep concern over the financial difficulties faced by UASU members, citing the situation as humiliating. The union highlighted the Technical University of Kenya as an example, where only 65 per cent of July salaries were paid.

"The union is not going to accept the reduction of our members' salaries going forward. The union shall call out all its members to protest. Take notice that the union shall not condone any delays in the release of salaries to public universities in future and shall take action to force compliance in line with the provisions of the law" the union said.

He further added that academic activities at universities would come to a halt in September if the issue was not resolved. "Expecting lecturers to work at full capacity while paying them only 65 per cent of their salary is simply unacceptable," Wesonga said.

The ongoing salary delays have caused significant hardship for public university staff. Wesonga pointed out that the union had also raised concerns about the non-remittance of statutory deductions. These include contributions to the Social Security Fund (NSSF), National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF), retirement benefits, and other social welfare contributions such as saccos, loans, and insurance.

Wesonga noted that the continuous delay had caused embarrassment and disrespect to UASU members. He mentioned that retired academic staff were unable to access their pensions, leaving them in poverty and poor health.

Additionally, many public universities lack adequate medical schemes, and the failure to remit NHIF contributions has worsened the situation. According to Wesonga, this has led to an alarming increase in mortality and suffering among university workers.

The UASU has made it clear that it will not back down until its demands are met. The union is preparing for a full-scale mobilisation of its members if the government does not take immediate action to resolve the issue.