Moi University staff have been directed to collect redundancy letters in a mass termination exercise that has affected the institution because of financial constraints.
In a memo dated May 13, 2025, the university’s Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kiplagat Kotut, instructed employees to pick up either retention or redundancy notices between May 14 and May 23, 2025.
Moreover, the process, referred to as a “Right-Sizing Exercise,” follows months of internal consultations and is being implemented in partnership with three unions.
The unions include the Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU), the Kenya Universities Staff Union (KUSU), and the Kenya Union of Domestic Hotels, Educational Institutions, Hospitals & Allied Workers (KUDHEIHA).
“The staff Right-Sizing exercise at Moi University has now been concluded after extensive consultations with various stakeholders.
“We request Members of Staff to collect their retention or redundancy notification letters between Wednesday, 14th May 2025 and Friday, 23rd May 2025 during office hours,” the notice read in part.
Also Read: Moi University Directs Staff to Resume Work Without Pay
Moi University Leadership Explains Terminations
Further, a termination letter signed by Prof. Loice Maru, the Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Administration, Planning, and Strategy, confirmed that the redundancies were in compliance with Section 40 of the Employment Act, 2007.
The letter emphasized that the move was not performance-related but rather a response to the financial constraints beyond the administration’s control.
“Following a thorough review of the University’s operational needs and financial sustainability, your position has been identified as one of those affected by the redundancy process.
“Accordingly, this letter serves as formal notice that your employment with the University will be terminated on the grounds of redundancy, effective 30 days from the date of this letter.” one of the termination letters seen by The Kenya Times, read in part.
At the same time, affected staff have been assured of terminal benefits, including notice pay, severance, and any accrued leave days.
They have been asked to return all university property before their last working day to facilitate a seamless clearance process.
Also Read: Mass Layoffs to Hit Moi University as it Issues Redundancy Notice
Troubles at the University
Moi University, once one of Kenya’s academic university giants, has in recent years battled financial troubles, with reports of delayed salaries, mounting debts.
The latest layoffs are expected to affect both academic and non-teaching staff, although specific numbers have not yet been disclosed.
In January 2025, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba dissolved the Moi University Council and appointed a new one chaired by Noah Midamba.
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