By Dennis Muritu

Lecturers at the Technical University of Kenya (TUK) staged a protest today, voicing their concerns over several issues that they say have worsened their financial stability and working conditions. The demonstration, which saw academic staff gather outside the administration building, was fueled by grievances related to government salary deductions, increased taxes, unpaid salaries, unremitted loans, delayed pension payments, and dissatisfaction with university management.

A major point of contention among the lecturers was the recent increase in taxes and the government-imposed salary cuts, which they argue are excessive and unjustified. According to the lecturers, these deductions have significantly impacted their earnings, with many stating that the tax burden is so heavy it has become difficult to meet basic living expenses. The lecturers are calling for a thorough review of the tax policies, claiming that the rise in taxes on public sector workers is placing an unfair strain on educators who are already facing financial hardships.

“We are finding it increasingly difficult to make ends meet because of the high salary deductions,” one lecturer explained during the protest. “On top of that, taxes are being increased, and it feels like the government is taking more from us without any consideration for our well-being.”

Beyond the financial deductions, lecturers also voiced concerns over unpaid salaries and unremitted loans. Many staff members reported delays in salary payments, causing significant hardship for themselves and their families. Additionally, several lecturers expressed frustration over loan payments that have not been forwarded, resulting in penalties for non-payment.

“I have not received my full salary in months, and there are loans that the university has not remitted,” another lecturer said. “This delay is affecting my financial security and makes it hard to manage day-to-day expenses. It’s not just unfair—it’s demoralizing.”

The issue of unpaid pensions also remains a significant grievance. Despite years of service, many lecturers claim that their pension payments have not been processed, worsening their financial situation and leaving them uncertain about their future financial security.

Working conditions at the university were also a major focus of the protest. Lecturers complained of inadequate facilities, overcrowded classrooms, and a general lack of resources, all of which they say hinder their ability to deliver quality education. Many lecturers feel unsupported by the university’s management, which they claim is failing to address these issues adequately.

“We are working in conditions that do not reflect the importance of education in this country,” one lecturer stated. “The classrooms are overcrowded, resources are scarce, and management is not taking meaningful action to improve the situation. This makes it very difficult to provide the level of education our students deserve.”

Additionally, lecturers expressed dissatisfaction with the university’s healthcare coverage. Many claimed that the medical insurance provided is insufficient, limiting access to necessary medical services for staff members.

The demonstration also highlighted the growing frustration with the university’s management. Lecturers described management as out of touch with the day-to-day realities faced by academic staff, making decisions without proper consultation with those directly affected. This lack of engagement has fostered a sense of disillusionment among lecturers.

“There’s a growing frustration among staff members. Management seems to make decisions in isolation without involving lecturers in the process,” said a member of the student union. “We need management to listen to our concerns and collaborate with us to improve the situation.”

The lecturers are demanding immediate action from both the government and university management to address their concerns. They are calling for the full payment of outstanding salaries, the remittance of unpaid loans, the immediate processing of pensions, and a review of tax policies that impact educators. Furthermore, they are requesting that management improve working conditions, enhance support for academic staff, and upgrade healthcare provisions.

As the protest ended, the lecturers stressed the importance of dialogue and negotiation. They are calling for a meeting with university management and government representatives to explore solutions that will improve the working environment for lecturers and secure their financial stability.

The protest at TUK highlights the broader challenges faced by academic staff in Kenya’s public universities. With many lecturers experiencing similar issues, the demonstration may spark a wider discussion about the state of public sector education and the treatment of educators across the country.

It remains to be seen whether this protest will lead to tangible changes, but one thing is clear: the lecturers at the Technical University of Kenya are determined to continue their fight for fair treatment, better working conditions, and improved management practices.