Lecturers’ strike deepens as SRC, Education Ministry trade blame

Lecturers demanded the full Ksh.7.9 billion as stipulated in the 2017–2021 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), rejecting lesser offers. Sources reported that striking lecturers accused the SRC of misadvising the government and demanded its exclusion from the talks. 

As the strike enters its 21st day, failure to reach a consensus at Friday’s meeting will extend the strike into its fourth week.

In response. Education CS Migos Ogamba revealed that the outstanding amount stood at Ksh.624 million, disputing the Ksh.7.9 billion figure. 

According to the CS, the majority of the obligations were cleared in three tranches including Ksh.4.3 billion disbursed for the period October 2024 to June 2025, Ksh.2.73 billion allocated in the 2025/2026 financial year and another Ksh.2.73 billion planned for 2026/2027, to be paid as scheduled in the coming year.

On his part, Treasury CS John Mbadi stated that his ministry had honoured the deal struck with the universities by disbursing Ksh.4.3 billion, 

He instead pointed an accusing finger at the Ministry of Education and the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC).

“In my view, the problem with the lecturers’ strike is not with the Treasury. The issue lies in the lack of understanding between the Ministry and the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC). That’s where it needs to be resolved,” Mbadi noted.