KMPDU calls out UoN, KNH over exploitation of medical registrars

The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists’ Union (KMPDU) has written to the University of Nairobi (UoN), demanding urgent measures to protect the welfare of medical registrars, who it says are being overworked and unfairly treated.

In a letter addressed to the Dean of Students, Faculty of Health Sciences, KMPDU Secretary General Dr. Davji Atellah clarified that registrars are not hospital employees but postgraduate students under the university’s academic programs.

Dr. Atellah hence said they must be allowed sufficient time to prepare for and sit their examinations, as well as time to rest and recover afterward.

“This request is further informed by the concerning rise in cases of mental health challenges and, tragically, incidences of suicide among registrars in recent times,” he stated.

He went on to urge institutions such as the Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) to ensure that clinical duties currently performed by registrars are covered during examination and holiday periods when the university is closed.

The KMPDU boss also warned against barring government-sponsored registrars from sitting their exams due to unpaid tuition, saying the government is already in the process of settling the outstanding fees.

“Registrars should not be penalized or disadvantaged in the interim,” noted the union Secretary General.

Additionally, Dr. Atellah emphasized that registrars should not be made to work beyond 40 hours per week, as stipulated in the Return to Work Formula signed with the government on May 8, 2024, and its addendum dated December 19, 2024.

“Any work undertaken beyond the stipulated 40 hours must be duly compensated; failure to do so shall constitute contempt of court and payment will be pursued accordingly,” he stated.

The doctors’ union SG further appealed to the university to adhere to the agreements in place and prioritize the well-being and academic advancement of registrars.