CS Julius Ogamba Denounces Fake Letter as University Strike Paralyzes Learning Nationwide

CS Julius Ogamba Denounces Fake Letter as University Strike Paralyzes Learning Nationwide

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has strongly dismissed a viral letter claiming the government ordered university students to stay home until 2026. The letter, which circulated widely on social media, falsely suggested the Ministry had endorsed the ongoing lecturers’ strike and instructed students to vacate campuses.

“Treat It With Contempt”—Ogamba Warns Against Misinformation

On Tuesday evening, Ogamba released a brief but firm statement.

“The letter currently circulating and purporting to be from me is fake,” Ogamba declared. “I urge the public to treat it with the contempt it deserves,” he added.

The fake document had caused panic among students, especially first-years who had just begun their academic journey.

“We’re Stuck”—Students Threaten to Join Lecturers in Protest

The strike, which began in mid-September, has crippled learning in all public universities. Thousands of students remain stranded, unsure of when classes will resume.

“We came to learn, not to wait endlessly,” a frustrated student said. “If nothing changes, we’ll join the dons in protest,” another added.

On Monday, several student groups threatened to take to the streets, demanding swift action from the government.

“We Won’t Back Down”—Lecturers Stand Firm Despite Court Order

Despite a court directive to resume teaching, lecturers have refused to budge. The Employment and Labour Relations Court, led by Justice Jacob Gakeri, suspended the strike on September 18 and urged both parties to negotiate in good faith.

“The government has failed us repeatedly,” a UASU official stated. “We won’t return until our demands are met,” he insisted.

Lecturers claim the government only released Ksh2.5 billion, a fraction of the Ksh10.4 billion owed under past and current CBAs.

“This Is a Crisis”—Unions Demand Full Settlement of Arrears

Both UASU and KUSU argue that the government still owes Ksh7.9 billion from the 2017 and 2021 CBAs. They insist the partial payment is inadequate and disrespectful.

“We made three demands. Only one was met,” a KUSU representative said. “This is not negotiation. It’s neglect,” he added.

As the standoff continues, students, lecturers, and parents are left in limbo, hoping for a breakthrough.

“We Need Urgent Action”—Nation Watches as Education Hangs in the Balance

With learning halted and tensions rising, Kenyans are demanding transparency, accountability, and a swift resolution.

“Our future is on hold. We need answers,” a parent pleaded.

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CS Julius Ogamba Denounces Fake Letter as University Strike Paralyzes Learning Nationwide