The ongoing lecturers' strike
The ongoing lecturers’ strike has left thousands of public university students in a state of confusion and frustration. Once, life was about waking up for early morning lectures, attending classes, group discussions and meeting deadlines. Now, it’s a cycle of idleness , eating, sleeping, and hoping that something will change soon. With no end in sight for the strike, students are struggling with the uncertainty of not knowing if exams will take place or not. Comrades are struggling with the effects of idleness and uncertainty.
Life in the hostels has become a routine of waiting. Many students, who once filled their days with academic work, are now spending long hours in their rooms, scrolling through social media, chatting with friends, or doing nothing at all. The motivation to study has faded, and the idea of preparing for exams feels pointless when there’s no clear indication of when or if they will happen.
Many are asking their parents for upkeep money just to get by, even though they have nothing to show for their time at university. For some, the strike has bred frustration and anxiety, while for others, it has led to outright despair. With no structured activities, boredom is giving way to behaviors that wouldn’t normally define a student’s life, including risky distractions.
The financial toll is significant. Parents, already burdened by the cost of education, are questioning why they continue to send money when learning has stopped. At the same time, students are left wondering whether they will even sit for the exams on time, or if this interruption will stretch into the next academic year.
The government and the striking lecturers must realize that this standoff is costing students their purpose, time, and peace of mind. Every day that goes by without a resolution is another day wasted in these idle routines. Students are in disarray whether to go home or remain in their hostels idling, this crisis must be resolved urgently.
It’s time for a solution. The government needs to understand that this strike is not just about lecturers’ demands , it’s about the students who are waiting for the chance to continue their education. It’s time for decisive action to end this strike and restore normalcy to universities.
Jane Wanjiru
Rongo university
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