Moi University Set to Reopen After Month-Long Closure Over Unrest
Moi University, in conjunction with Education Principal Secretary Beatrice Inyangala, has announced that the institution will reopen on Friday, November 8, after a one-month closure following student protests and staff unrest. This decision comes after extensive negotiations with key stakeholders, including student and staff unions, aimed at restoring peace and resuming learning.
University Vice Chancellor Isaac Kosgey shared in a memo that the University Board of Management held discussions with representatives from the University Academic Staff Union (UASU) on Sunday. “The State Department for Higher Education and Research will be at Moi University on Friday, November 8, 2024, to welcome the students back to the University. Comrades Resilience,” stated PS Inyangala, affirming the government’s support for a smooth reopening.
Kosgey explained that these discussions have also included student leaders from the Kenya University Students Union (KUSU), who joined talks to address concerns that initially triggered the protests. According to the memo, consultations will continue through November 5, with the goal of reaching a consensus on reopening terms and conditions that meet both student and staff needs.
In a further move towards solidifying peace, the University Council Chairperson, UASU National Secretary General Constantine Wesonga, and KUSU’s National Secretary General will convene on Wednesday to finalize and ratify agreements, including the signing of a Return-to-Work Formula (RTWF). This key document will outline the terms under which staff and students are expected to resume their responsibilities and studies.
Moi University was closed on October 3 after students protested the Vice Chancellor’s management decisions, which they said undermined their right to education. The protests called for Kosgey’s resignation, citing dissatisfaction with his handling of the institution and lack of response to staff grievances. Subsequently, the university Senate opted to indefinitely suspend academic activities, citing unrest and the impact of ongoing industrial action by staff as key factors. “The University Senate in a Special Meeting held today Thursday 3rd October 2024 resolved to suspend the teaching and learning activities of the 1st Semester 2024/2025 Academic Year as a consequence of the industrial action of staff and subsequent student unease,” the VC’s memo read.
The recent discussions signal a positive step towards resolution, paving the way for students’ return to class after weeks of tension on campus.
ALSO READ; Shock as KCSE Student Dies Suddenly Before Sitting Maths Exam
Moi University Set to Reopen After Month-Long Closure Over Unrest
