Kenya: Kenyatta University exams delayed Nov. 15 after unrest /update 1

Event

Administrators at Nairobi’s Kenyatta University agreed on Wednesday, November 15, to delay end-of-semester examinations in light of the ongoing teachers strike. On Tuesday, November 14, students rioted and set fire to at least one university building in response to plans to proceed with exams despite the material not being covered in class. The university clarified that it will publish a new schedule as soon as possible, and called on all students to remain calm.

Although the situation is expected to normalize with Wednesday’s announcement, further unrest regarding the teachers strike remains possible in Nairobi in the coming weeks, along with an increased security presence near local universities.

Context

The Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU) called for the staff of Kenya's 31 public universities to strike starting on Wednesday, November 1, and continuing indefinitely, as they demand salary and benefit increases. Union leaders have indicated that the strike will continue until the government addresses their demands. Universities had previously closed to allow for the October 26 rerun election to proceed; it is now unclear when classes will resume.

Advice

Individuals in Nairobi are advised to monitor the situation and to avoid any public demonstrations, as even peaceful protests can turn violent with little warning.