Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has advised lecturers to refrain from going on strike. He suggests they instead engage in negotiations to reach a peaceful resolution.
Talks have broken down between the Inter-Public Universities Council Consultative Forum (IPUCCF) and the Universities Academic Staff Union (Uasu). As a result, 35 public universities are warning of a potential halt in learning activities. They cite various grievances, including delayed salaries and non-remittance of deductions.
Mr. Ogamba emphasized the potential negative impact of a strike on academic programs, especially upcoming graduation ceremonies. He urged a constructive approach to labor relations.
He highlighted the importance of addressing the genuine concerns raised by university staff about their Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). The CS called for a collaborative effort.
The goal was to sustain security in learning institutions. This was after a tragic fire incident at Hillside Endarasha Academy.
The Education CS discussed a new funding model for higher education institutions. He emphasized the need for joint engagement between the government and students. This engagement is to review the effectiveness of the funding model.
Committees will be formed to guarantee fairness in accessing higher education. They will evaluate aspects like course costs, student appeals mechanisms, and loan structures. The government has already disbursed funds under the student-centered model to support students’ financial needs.
In conclusion, Mr. Ogamba stressed the importance of upholding safety standards in schools and warned of consequences for individuals found violating these measures.
He called for a collective effort to prevent school fires and make sure that institutions offer safe environments for students. The ongoing discussions aim to solve various aspects of the funding model. This is to support students in pursuing higher education without facing financial disadvantages.
