Education – Latest: Government moves to restore learning in universities after 49-day strike

Nairobi, Kenya — The Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU), together with the Kenya Universities Staff Union (KUSU) and other university staff bodies, have called off their nationwide strike after 49 days, following a deal with the Ministry of Education and university managements.
Here are the key details and implications:
What was agreed
The strike involved staff from all 42 public universities, who had demanded full payment of outstanding salary arrears and full implementation of previous collective bargaining agreements (CBA).
The government agreed to settle about KSh 7.9 billion in arrears in two tranches: approximately KSh 3.8 billion between November and December 2025, and the balance by July 2026.
A Return‑to‑Work Formula (RTWF) was signed by UASU and the Inter‑Public Universities Councils’ Consultative Forum (IPUCCF), which includes assurances of no reprisals for striking staff and recovery plans for lost teaching time.
Restoration and recovery measures
The Ministry has tasked universities with implementing recovery plans for lost teaching and examinations — these may include evening/weekend classes, compressed semesters and blended/online delivery.
Universities have been instructed not to impose extra costs on students arising from the strike‑related extension of semesters.
Notices to students in major institutions such as Kenyatta University and Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology announced resumption of classes starting Monday, November 10 2025.
Implications & remaining concerns
The disruption of 49 days has significantly affected first‑year students, graduations and practical attachments; the restoration plan seeks to recover that time.
While the RTWF signals progress, unions warn they will revisit action if commitments are not honoured.
The quality of education may still be under pressure as syllabus coverage will need to be accelerated; students and staff must manage the transition carefully to avoid compromise.
Structural issues persist: frequent strikes signal deeper challenges in staff welfare, negotiation of CBAs and institutional governance in Kenya’s higher education sector.