At least six students who had been suspended indefinitely on Monday, February 3 for planning and executing a strike that disrupted examinations at the Technical University of Kenya, TUK can heave a sigh of relief after the institution cancelled the suspension.
In a memo on February 4, the Vice-Chancellor (VC), Prof. Benedict Mutua stated that the decision was among the resolutions reached following a consultative meeting between the University Management Board (UMB) and the SATUK Council.
Mutua added that he would engage in discussions with the students who were suspended after participating in demonstrations on February 3, 2025.
“The University has resolved to withdraw the suspension letters of six students. The Vice-Chancellor will engage with the affected students in a fatherly dialogue,” Mutua stated.
The university was closed indefinitely following a strike by UASU and KUSU staff.
TUK also suspended diploma and undergraduate exams, which were scheduled to take place from Monday, February 3, to Saturday, February 15, 2025.
However, the university has announced that the UMB, University Council, Kenya Universities Students’ Organization (KUSO), and UASU are actively working to resolve the issues raised by staff to facilitate the swift resumption of academic programs.
Upon reopening, students will be given two weeks to revise before sitting for their final examinations.
The university reaffirmed its commitment to dialogue with both staff and students to address emerging concerns.
“Students are encouraged to remain calm as the university works towards resolving the current situation,” Mutua said.
TUK Suspension Letters
In one of the suspension letters seen by The Kenya Times, TUK initially stated that the students had violated regulations governing the organization, conduct, and discipline of students.
The students were accused of deliberately planning, organizing, and actively participating in actions that caused disruption and property destruction within the university.
Additionally, TUK claimed their actions led to the interruption of ongoing and scheduled examinations.
“Consequently, you are hereby suspended from the university with immediate effect and until further notice, pending further disciplinary proceedings,” Mutua stated.
Also Read: Shock for TUK Graduating Class as Course Found Unaccredited
KUSO Statement
However, KUSO opposed the decision, stating that the suspensions were unjust and violated the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, which guarantees fundamental rights.
The organization cited: Article 37 (the right to assemble, demonstrate, picket, and petition peacefully), Article 33(1)(a) (the right to freedom of expression), and Article 47 (the right to fair administrative action).
KUSO argued that students had done nothing wrong except stand firm in demanding their rights.
“We issue a 24-hour ultimatum to the Vice-Chancellor of TUK to immediately reinstate all suspended comrades unconditionally and cease any form of intimidation or repression against students exercising their constitutional rights,” KUSO stated.
KUSO also threatened to mobilize university students nationwide to camp at TUK if their demands were not met.
Also Read: University VC Suspends Students Indefinitely
Babu Owino’s Response
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino criticized the university’s closure, the suspension of students, and the dismissal of several university staff, particularly lecturers.
He urged the VC to embrace dialogue with students and lecturers to prevent further crisis at the institution.
“Reopen the university so students can resume learning immediately. Most importantly, do not victimize any student leader or lecturer over this matter,” he said.
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