The Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) has announced an immediate and indefinite closure of the institution following a prolonged lecturers’ strike that has paralyzed learning and operations.
In a notice issued on Saturday, November 1, the university directed all students residing within its premises to vacate the campus by Sunday, November 2, at 4:00 PM. The directive was signed by Professor Robert Kinyua, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs.
The shutdown comes as the Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU) and the Kenya University Staff Union (KUSU) continue their industrial action, now entering its seventh week, after rejecting the government’s proposed Ksh 7.9 billion offer to settle their demands. The strike has significantly disrupted academic programs across public universities nationwide.
According to the notice, a special Senate meeting held on Thursday, October 30, resolved to suspend all academic programs until further notice due to the ongoing stalemate.
“Due to the ongoing industrial action which has adversely affected normal academic operations, the University temporarily suspends academic activities with immediate effect until further notice,” read part of the statement.
“Consequently, all students are required to clear from the University by 4:00 PM on Sunday, November 2, 2025.”
However, the university clarified that the evacuation order does not apply to certain categories of students. Exempted groups include those on clinical rotations, JKUAT College students, Mombasa Campus, Nakuru Campus, e-Learning students, and postgraduate students currently conducting research.
The administration expressed regret over the disruption caused by the closure but commended students for their patience and cooperation.
“The University management regrets any inconvenience this may cause and appreciates your understanding and cooperation during this period,” the statement added.
Professor Kinyua assured that communication on the resumption of academic activities will be made in due course through official university channels once the situation stabilizes.