Lecturers' strike: Talks resume as gov't offers two-phase payment for Ksh.7.9B arrears

Union officials have said that the government appears to soften its previous hardline stance and is now offering to pay the lecturers' Ksh.7.9 billion arrears in two phases. The lecturers' unions say they will consider the offer with their members before making a decision.

As the lecturers' strike entered its 44th day, union leaders say talks to resolve the impasse that has denied students learning are advancing. UASU says the union and the Ministry have been holding meetings this week, resulting in a better offer from the government.

"Initially, they wanted to pay it in three phases; they have narrowed it down to two phases. We are going to consult our members, and the government is also going to consult," Constantine Wesonga said.

"It is only fair that we inform our members to stay put but vigilant. We give the government this opportunity because they have shown themselves ready to engage us," Mukhwaya, Secretary General of the Kenya University Staff Union (KUSU), said.

The two unions say they are convening their respective National Executive Committees this evening to present the government's offer before conveying the outcome to the National Delegates Conferences (NDCs) to decide on whether or not they will resume classes.

"We have agreed to burn the midnight oil, my lines are open. The government has also decided to burn the midnight oil," Constantine Wesonga, Secretary General of (Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU), said.

But in the meantime, the industrial action continues.

"The strike is on. Members are called upon to remain vigilant as we pursue lines consulting at high levels," Constantine Wesonga, Secretary General of UASU, said.

As the unions and government race towards a resolution of the lecturers' issues, including the new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), students in some public universities have taken to the streets in solidarity with the striking lecturers.

In Egerton, they vowed to continue with the strike until their lecturers are paid what is owed them.

"This is unacceptable, buana. If you don't want us to learn, do away with education. Sio lazima tusome. Kama hamuwezi lipa lecturers, kila mutu aende kazi," one student said.