Lecturers accuse vice chancellors of dishonesty, vow strike to continue
By William Muthama, October 1, 2025University lecturers have vowed to sustain their strike until their demands are addressed, accusing vice chancellors of dishonesty and deliberate attempts to frustrate negotiations.
The University Academic Staff Union (UASU) made the announcement during a press briefing in Nairobi on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, insisting that dialogue must be grounded in sincerity.
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Speaking during the event, UASU Secretary-General Constantine Wasonga said lecturers feel betrayed by the conduct of university bosses.
“Vice chancellors are not being truthful with the figures they are presenting to the government and to the public. They claim there is no money, yet records show otherwise,” he stated.
Wasonga added, “This is no longer just a labour dispute; it is about integrity and fairness. If the leadership at our universities cannot be honest, then what future are we shaping for our students?”
The lecturers argue that vice chancellors have repeatedly shifted positions in collective bargaining agreements, leaving staff demoralised.
They maintained that the ongoing industrial action is not just about salaries but about restoring trust in the higher education sector.
Kenya University Staff Union (KUSU) Secretary-General Charles Mukhwaya also faulted the vice chancellors and university councils, accusing them of giving the public a distorted picture of the dispute.
“In 2025, the Attorney General issued an advisory, and the court ordered payment of our CBAs. Vice Chancellors and Councils are lying to the public and running away from facts,” he said.
Strike to persist
The lecturers, who downed tools two weeks ago, said they would not return to classrooms until a clear framework on salary arrears and improved working conditions is agreed upon.
The strike has already disrupted learning in several public universities, with final-year students expressing fears over delayed graduations.
At the same time, the union dismissed calls by some vice chancellors urging staff to resume duties as talks continue.
“No amount of intimidation or sugar-coating will stop this strike. We are ready to negotiate, but only with honesty on the table,” Wasonga declared.
The union urged the Ministry of Education to intervene and ensure that negotiations are transparent. They accused vice chancellors of misrepresenting financial records and blocking a fair settlement.