University of Nairobi (UoN) Vice Chancellor (VC) Prof. Margaret Jesang Hutchinson has directed all academic staff to resume work immediately.
Speaking on Monday, November 11, Hutchinson emphasized that it is essential for Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU) to dialogue and remain committed to the ongoing negotiations.
“I therefore urge all the academic members of Staff of the University of Nairobi to resume duties with immediate effect,” Hutchinson said.
She also instructed Deans and Heads of Departments to take daily attendance of faculty members and report it to her office.
The VC cautioned that academic staff who fail to report to work will face disciplinary action in accordance with the law and their employment contracts.
“In light of the Court directive, I hereby direct deans of faculties and chairs of departments to conduct roll calls on a daily basis and submit the data to the deputy Vice Chancellor academic affairs with a copy to the VC,” she said.
“Any faculty member found not honoring their employment obligations will face action in accordance with the law and their assigned Employment contract.”
Hutchinson explained that no one will be permitted to incite or intimidate members who wish to fulfill their duties during this time.
Additionally, she said her VC will remain available for consultations and discussions as they endeavor to promote industrial harmony at the institution.
Hutchinson Explains Impacts of Strike & Thanks Students
The VC said the ongoing industrial action has paralyzed learning in most public universities in Kenya.
“The strike has not only affected teaching and learning but has also affected research, community service and the general operations of the University,” she said.
Hutchinson appreciated and acknowledged the importance of the issues being raised by UASU members stating that they have received attention from all stakeholders.
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However, she stated that the matter has been prosecuted in the courts of law and deemed unprotected.
The VC said she is hopeful the matters under contention will be resolved amicably by the interministerial negotiations committee.
She also thanked the students for their patience and understanding during the strike.
“It is crucial that we work together positively during these challenging times, and I wish to thank all our students for their patience and commitment to making the University of Nairobi a beacon of hope to many,” she said.
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UoN Graduation 2024
She stated that UoN’s graduation ceremony will be held on December 13, 2024, at the Chancellor’s Court.
The VC said the university will graduate 5,000 students who have completed their academic requirements during the 72nd graduation ceremony.
“I urge the prospective graduands to clear in good time to avoid last minute pressure and for the other for the staff members to smoothly facilitate the process,” she said.
Silicon Savannah Innovation Park
Further, she said the management will launch University of Nairobi Silicon Savannah Innovation Park on November 26.
She explained that the Park is one of the chancellors’ big five transformation agenda for the University
“We shall be hosting very high-level Partners from across the globe and I therefore urge all of us to prepare and to stay focused and to watch this space for more details,” she said.
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