CS MIGOS: We Are Determined To Resolve Lectures Strike, Unions Should Consider Government Deal

BY ERIC ABUGA

Education Cabinet Secretary Ogamba Migos has called on the striking lecturers to consider the Government deal and remain open to negotiations.

Speaking Monday morning in Kwale and Matuga while opening of of the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC), the CS said the Government is committed to resolve the issues in a more amicable way.

"The Unions have insisted that they want the whole amount paid. This becomes a problem because this remains an historical debt that was never factored in the Ministry's 2025/26 Budget."

The CS, that notwithstanding, the Government is keen on addressing the issue. "We have to some reallocations, some programs will suffers because of such budget cuts. Not that the Government will not pay, all we are ready to do is to pay 50 percent through Supplementary budget and the remaining 50 percent be paid through Budget allocation in the next financial year."

Migos says 12 Universities have not been teaching completely. "Some of the Senates have made a decision to close while others are meting to assess the decision. This challenge is on our table because of the past non decision making."

He says; "The current Government wants to resolve the issue to avoid such strikes in the comming days. Wherever the offer we have given we have made it good."

The CS thanked the University students for reaming calm. "The students being punished now were not there in 2017 and in 2021. This is a pending Bill that can be resolved. The students have done their part and should no be punished."

He pointed out to another issue raised by lecturers; the 2025/29 CBA. "My appeal is to have lecturers call of the strike and spend some time in negotiations. The Government has remained faithful to the discussions. We can't run away from the challenges."

During his work visit, the CS noted that today marks the conclusion of the Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA) for Grade 9 learners, whose results will be processed promptly to ensure a smooth transition to Grade 10 Senior School in 2026. 

"The Government committed to the 100 percent transition policy and fair placement based on merit and learner preferences."

The Cabinet Secretary also announced the commencement of the KCSE main written examinations, urging candidates to approach the tests with calmness, confidence, and integrity. 

He assured the nation that security measures have been strengthened and that no candidate will miss their examinations due to weather-related disruptions, particularly in landslide- and flood-affected areas.