Lecturers’ Strike Paralyzes Learning at Technical University of Mombasa.
Whistles and placards dominated the atmosphere at the Technical University of Mombasa (TUM) on Wednesday, as lecturers from three major unions UASU (University Academic Staff Union), KUSU (Kenya University Staff Union), and KUDHEIHA (Kenya Union of Domestic, Hotels, Educational Institutions, Hospitals and Allied Workers) joined the ongoing nationwide strike. The strike, organized to protest the delayed implementation of the 2021–2025 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), brought normal learning activities at the university to a complete halt.
Lecturers marched across the campus chanting slogans and carrying placards bearing messages of frustration and demand for justice. They accused the government of failing to honor the CBA, which includes negotiated salary increments, improved working conditions, and enhanced benefits for academic and non-academic staff. The unions claim that despite multiple attempts to engage the government, promises made have not been fulfilled, leaving university staff feeling betrayed and financially strained.
Students were left stranded as classes were cancelled indefinitely. Many expressed concern over the potential impact on their academic calendar, including possible delays in graduation and disrupted learning schedules. “We support our lecturers, but we also want to learn. The government should act fast,” said a third-year student in the Faculty of Engineering.
Union leaders at TUM insisted the strike would continue until their grievances were addressed. “We are not asking for favors. We are demanding what is rightfully ours,” said one representative from UASU during the peaceful protest.
As the strike gains momentum across the country, pressure continues to mount on the government to respond to the educators’ demands. If unresolved, the industrial action could have far-reaching consequences on the higher education sector, affecting thousands of students and derailing academic progress nationwide.
