Public universities have been limping from crisis to crisis, from insolvency to student rampage and now second strike by dons over unpaid, low and delayed salaries.
These alarming incidents poses a significant threat to universities.
Firstly, disruption of learning and limited access to resources. Strikes occasionally results to closure of institutions or delays of lessons. Universities also provides access to resources such as books, newspapers and other electronic resources like computers for free. Students can be limited from engaging with these resources hence disrupting their learning.
Secondly, loss of institutional time. Extended periods without learning causes learning gaps since time which is scheduled for learning and covering the units is wasted for strike. This might cause other universities to end a semester without completing their course units.
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Thirdly, Emotional stress and mental impact. The uncertainty of strike can create anxiety and stress to students and lecturers due to lack of routine and also leads to feeling of disconnection with their daily duties. Imagine as a student waking up and being idle until evening without going to lectures.
In addition, poor results from lack of enough engagement with the course or due to lack of syllabus coverage. Strikes has to be addressed since it’s jeopardizing the dreams and efforts of learners therefore it might darken their future as they would be looking for jobs.
Lastly, finance strain. Many lecturers who are on strikes are also parents. Due to delayed payments or unpaid salaries leads to financial strain in balancing tight budgets. They have students in other learning institution and should pay fee for them and provide for other family expanses.
Strikes have a significant impact on students, lectures and everyone in the university. It’s essential for the UASU (University Academic Staff Union) and the government to prioritize dons’ concerns. It can ensure transparent communication and fulfill the promises they made.
By Faith Oloo
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