The University of Nairobi (UoN) students have issued a strike threat over what they term as high accommodation fees at the institution.
In a statement dated July 17, 2025, the students said they had previously consulted with the Vice Chancellor’s office to review and reduce the current accommodation charges, but no action has been taken.
“This matter has not been addressed, and therefore, the University of Nairobi must prepare for full student action. There will be no admission of first-year students, no traffic in the CBD, and we will issue an official strike notice,” read part of the statement.
Additionally, the student leadership expressed the collective frustration and anger of the student body over the Vice Chancellor’s continued inaction on the matter.
UoN Issues Demands
In their earlier demands, the students called for the immediate reduction of accommodation fees to a fair and affordable rate, as previously agreed upon.
They have also accused the Vice Chancellor of employing delay tactics in addressing the issue.
They further stated that the current rates are unsustainable and place an unfair burden on students, many of whom come from financially disadvantaged backgrounds.
They described the continued silence from the university administration as unacceptable.
“The current rates are unsustainable and continue to place an unfair burden on students, many of whom come from financially struggling backgrounds. Your continued silence is unacceptable,” read the statement.
Also Read: PSC Clarifies Its Role in the Delayed Recruitment of UoN Vice Chancellor
Other Issues Raised by Students
In addition to protesting the high cost of hostel accommodation, the students also raised several other concerns.
1. Learning Infrastructure: They noted that several key lecture halls remain in a state of disrepair as the university prepares to resume in-person classes next semester.
Many of these halls lack functional PA systems, significantly hampering effective teaching and learning.
2. Academic Delays and Inefficiencies: They also stated that the current graduating class in the Pharmacy program has not received exam results, allegedly due to delayed payment of lecturer allowances.
As a result, their internship placements have been disrupted, forcing students to wait an entire year for the next internship cycle.
3. Leadership Vacuum: Lastly, they noted that the University Council—the institution’s top decision-making body—has not been reconstituted following the resignation of three members, including the Chairperson, over graft allegations.
This leadership vacuum has crippled university governance, stalling critical decisions such as the appointment of a substantive Vice Chancellor.
Also Read: Cost of On-Campus Housing for Students at UoN and Kenyatta University
University of Nairobi Accommodation Rates
First-Year Students
| Faculty | Room Type | Daily Rate (Ksh) | Semester Duration (Days) | Total (Ksh) |
| Non-Medical Faculties | Single occupancy | 205 | 118 | 24,190 |
| Sharing 2 (non-partitioned) | 178 | 118 | 21,004 | |
| Sharing 2 (semi-partitioned) | 192 | 118 | 22,656 | |
| Sharing 3 or more | 144 | 118 | 16,992 | |
| Faculty of Health Sciences | Single occupancy | 205 | 140 | 28,700 |
| Sharing 2 (non-partitioned) | 178 | 140 | 24,920 | |
| Sharing 2 (semi-partitioned) | 192 | 140 | 26,880 | |
| Sharing 3 or more | 144 | 140 | 20,160 |
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