The University of Nairobi has scaled back its operations in compliance with President Uhuru Kenyatta's directive to suspend physical learning in all educational institutions including universities, tertiary and vocational colleges.
In a statement on Saturday, March 27, the institution's Vice-Chancellor Prof Stephen Kiama suspended all accommodation and catering services and directed students to vacate the halls of residence.
"The students should vacate from 4 p.m today and not later than 28th March by 10 a.m," he ordered.
The government had earlier handed a lifeline to those wishing to leave the counties under the one zone area, giving time for them to transition until 8 p.m. on Sunday, March 28.
Prof Kiama encouraged international students to take advantage of the available international flights to go home.
He further rescheduled all in-person teaching and learning activities at the University except those in the College of Health Sciences.
"All teaching and learning will continue to take place online. The Director ICTC to facilitate staff and students in upscaling the uptake and utilization of online solutions," the VC added.
He further directed that all members of staff would continue to work from home with effect from Monday, March 29, 2021, subject to appropriate work plans, work schedules, and targets as managed by heads of departments.
Prof Kiama also suspended all recreational facilities in the University premises including Members Clubs until further notice adding that restaurants and eateries in the university premises would remain closed unless they have the capacity to provide takeaway services only.
"All sporting activities in the university are suspended and our sports facilities including fields will be shut down with immediate effect," he noted.
The only departments that would remain open as they are essential services include The Directorate of Security and Safety Directorate, The Veterinary hospital, the Field Station, the Veterinary Farm, The Dental Hospital, and the University Health Services.
"Critical services that will need to be managed from the offices should be managed on a case by case basis in consultation with the Vice-Chancellor," Prof Kiama added.
He added that the institution was making arrangements for the vaccination of all university staff and encouraged the staff members to visit any government facility for vaccination.
Here is the video of his address:
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