During a sitting on Monday, June 17, the National Assembly Committee on Education—chaired by Tinderet MP Julius Melly—interrogated Moi University officials over the ongoing retrenchment of staff and declining enrolment in satellite campuses.
“The Committee is deeply concerned about the livelihoods of the affected staff. We want assurance that legal procedures were followed and that redundancy is not being used as a shortcut,” said Melly.
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Moi University Layoffs: A Breakdown
Acting Vice Chancellor Prof. Isaac Kiplagat and Acting Deputy VC Loice Maru defended the layoffs, stating that voluntary exits and retirements had failed to lower operational costs. The retrenchment affected 376 employees, with severance payouts totaling Ksh 167.4 million.
“We followed the Employment Act, consulted all relevant unions, and expect to save Ksh 120 million monthly,” said Kiplagat.
Layoff notices were issued on May 13. However, unions disputed the exercise and filed a legal challenge. A court ruling on the matter is expected soon.
Also Read: UASU Slaps Moi University with Demands Over Dismissal of 900 Staff
Concerns Over Transparency and Union Dues
MPs raised concerns over unremitted union dues totaling Ksh 64.9 million, with the largest portion owed to UASU (Ksh 31.9M), KUSU (Ksh 21.4M), and KUDHEIHA (Ksh 11.5M).
Kibra MP Peter Orero demanded answers, saying, “You’ve laid off hundreds, but unions say they weren’t consulted. Was this exercise conducted fairly?” The university acknowledged the arrears, stating that payments resumed in September 2024.
Are Moi University Courses Still Viable?
The committee questioned the relevance of Moi University’s 65 undergraduate and 194 postgraduate programs, especially given low enrolment at its five campuses. The planned closure of the Coast Campus was flagged as a drastic move.
“We must review if these courses align with Kenya’s economic goals and student demand,” said Hon. Christine Oduor.
Committee Vice Chair Hon. Eve Obara added that the institution’s debt, unpaid staff loans, and unremitted statutory deductions hint at deeper governance rot.
Government Intervention Underway
Moi University officials said they are working closely with the State Department for Higher Education and the Pending Bills Committee to find long-term solutions.
“We are committed to financial recovery, but we need structured support and time,” concluded Prof. Kiplagat.
