UoN Students Take to the Streets, Demand Return to Class Amid Lecturers’ Strike

Students at the University of Nairobi took to the streets on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, protesting the ongoing lecturers’ strike that has disrupted learning in public universities across Kenya.

The students blocked sections of Waiyaki Way, causing traffic disruption as they demanded urgent action to end the strike and allow them to return to class.

According to reports by Kenyans.co.ke and Education News, some students barricaded parts of the road using stones and burning tyres, forcing motorists to seek alternative routes.

The demonstrations come after weeks of interrupted learning, leaving students uncertain about when normal academic activities will resume.

The lecturers began their strike on October 2, 2026, following disagreements with the government over employment terms, salary adjustments and the implementation of the 2025–2029 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

The Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU) and other university staff unions have maintained pressure on the government to address their demands before lecturers resume teaching.

Students have also raised concerns about the impact of the strike on their academic calendars, examinations and graduation plans.

On October 16, the University of Nairobi Students Association issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the government, demanding a resolution to the dispute. The student leaders warned that they would take to the streets if the matter remained unresolved.

However, the failure to reach an agreement has increased frustration among students, who say they want to continue with their studies instead of remaining at home or idle on campus.

The latest protests put further pressure on the government and university staff unions to find a lasting solution to the dispute.

For now, students are waiting for an agreement that will restore normal learning and give them a clear picture of when classes will resume.

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