Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has assured that the Ministry is working tirelessly to ensure that the Technical University of Kenya (TUK) which has been closed for over two weeks is reopened.
His assurance comes a few days after students from the university staged protests, demanding that the school be reopened, as its closure was hindering their education.
Speaking to Kenyans.co.ke, CS Ogamba revealed that the Ministry was working on a sustainable solution to ensure that once the issue is resolved, it does not recur in the future.
"Regarding TUK, where there are issues related to resources and unpaid salaries, we are working to secure the necessary funds for disbursement. Additionally, I will be meeting with the unions next week to ensure we find a sustainable solution to the challenges facing the university," Ogamba noted.
The CS was speaking during an event at KQ Pride Centre on Friday, February 21 where he was one of the guest speakers.
Ogamba revealed that the Ministry has established a special team to investigate the issues affecting TUK and ensure that grievances are addressed.
The CS stated that he will be convening meetings with the team and university unions from next week to develop the best approach to resolving the matter and ensuring the university reopens as soon as possible.
On Wednesday, February 19, students from TUK stormed the Vice-Chancellor’s office and the Education Ministry offices demanding the immediate reopening of the institution that was closed on February 3.
The University Senate had ordered the indefinite closure of TUK following a strike by staff over delayed salaries. The university directed all students to vacate the student residences.
Regarding the ongoing dispute at the University of Nairobi, Ogamba has assured that the Ministry is thoroughly analysing and addressing the issues related to university governance.
On Thursday, MPs called for the dissolution of the University of Nairobi (UoN) Council, accusing its chairman, Prof Amukoa Anangwe, of interfering with the institution’s management.
The National Assembly’s Education Committee also directed the Ministry of Education to submit a report within seven days outlining steps taken to resolve the leadership crisis.
