Despite the National Assembly’s assurance that Moi University is expected to reopen on November 4, it has been revealed that there is no plan to reopen the institution until all salary-related dues, amounting to more than Ksh 10 billion, are paid.
A student leader at the University divulged that the institution’s Senate did not have any plans to reopen the university soon and has not determined an exact date for resumption.
“Nothing much was discussed concerning the school’s reopening in today’s Senate meeting,” the source disclosed.
“As it stands, despite the Parliament issuing out a statement that the school should be opened by 4th of November, the Senate has not yet decided on the actual date of the school’s reopening.”
Moi University Will Not Reopen Until Arrears Are paid
It was also revealed that the decision resulted from the delayed disbursement of funds from the National Treasury, which the school has yet to receive.
At the same time, the Senate emphasized that Moi University will remain closed until the Return-to-Work Formula (RTWF) is signed by the relevant parties.
“The Senate is clear that the school remains closed until the Return-to-Work Formula (RTWF) is signed by the parties concerned and an official memo is released,” added the source.
Also Read: Has Moi University Transferred All Students Because of Bankruptcy?
However, the chair of the Senate today stated that graduation will continue even if the strike is still on.
The Graduation date has been scheduled for 19th December 2024 where about bout 155 Postgraduate students are set to graduate.
Notably, the School of Science and Aerospace Studies has no postgraduate students cleared for graduation.
Nonetheless, this could change at any time once learning resumes.
Moi University Clarifies Reopening and Transfer of Students
At the same time, the University issued a statement addressing and refuting recent false claims circulating on various media and social platforms regarding alleged plans to transfer students to other universities.
In a communication released on Friday, November 1, Vice Chancellor Prof Isaac Sanga Kosgey assured its community, including students and parents, that these claims are entirely unfounded and do not reflect the institution’s intentions or actions.
“Moi University is committed to providing quality education and ensuring that our students can continue their academic journey without disruption,” Prof. Kosgey said.
The University emphasized that it is actively collaborating with relevant authorities to resolve the issues that led to the closure of the institution.
“Our priority remains the welfare of our students and the continuity of their education. We are optimistic that learning will resume as soon as possible,” the statement added.
Furthermore, the institution expressed gratitude to its students and their families for their patience and understanding during this challenging period.
It added updates will be provided through its website and official social media platforms.”
Also Read: Why Moi University is on Its Deathbed
Govt Pledges Ksh 2.9 Billion
The National Treasury had committed to release Ksh. 2.9 billion to address the institution’s financial and operational needs.
National Assembly education committee chair Julius Melly had said that the National Treasury allocated Ksh609 million to the university in Octoberto support scholarships, tuition and ongoing student needs.
“Some Ksh300 million will go towards scholarships this October, in addition to Ksh217 million disbursed in August. Another Ksh219.9 million will cover tuition adding to the Ksh127.2 million allocated in August,” said Melly.
“Ksh89 million will be allocated as capitation for current students, complementing the Kh269 million disbursed in August.”
The funds are expected to cover the institution’s immediate financial obligations, including the payment of Ksh. 807 million in outstanding staff salaries for the past two months.
To cover the deficit of Ksh198 million, Melly stated that the university is expected to utilize its projected monthly revenue of Ksh206 million.
Additionally, by November 15, the Treasury is set to release an extra Ksh500 million to support financial stabilization and recovery.
A caretaker committee was also to be established to strengthen the institution’s management during this period and to develop a sustainable recovery plan for the university.
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