Editor's Review

The staff layoffs have been necessitated by a reduction in revenue brought about by a decline in student numbers. 

Moi University has issued a notice to employees, and the Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU) announced its intention to declare redundancy.

In the notice on Wednesday April 2, Moi University Vice Chancellor Professor Kiplagat Kotut said the redundancy was necessitated by reduction of revenue in the institution which has been caused by a decline in the number of students.

“In accordance with Section 40 of the Employment Act 2007, Laws of Kenya, and the provisions of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) between Moi University and the Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU), we hereby give formal notice of an intention to declare redundancy affecting a number of employees who are members of your Union.

“This decision has been necessitated by a reduction of revenue brought about by decline in student numbers,” read the notice in part.

Kotut explained that the reduction in revenue in the institution has created a difficult operating environment making it a challenge for the University to meet its financial obligations including payment of employee emoluments.

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File image of Moi University main gate.

The Moi University Vice Chancellor noted that during the notice period, the adminstration will engage in consultations with the affected employees and their union representatives, in accordance with the law and the UASU CBA.

“During the notice period, we will engage in consultations with the affected employees and their Union representatives, in accordance with the law and the UASU CBA. Our objective is to explore all possible alternatives to limit the impact of the redundancy, including potential redeployment or alternative roles where possible,” he stated.

Kotut also said the university will ensure full compliance with the provisions of the Employment Act, individual contracts, and the UASU CBA 2012/2013.

The employees affected will be entitled to severance Pay, salary in lieu of notice, payment of accrued leave days, and any other unpaid benefits due to them

Further, Kotut said all necessary deductions will be made in accordance with the applicable statutory requirements.

“The details of the employees that shall be affected and the proposed timeline for the redundancy process will be communicated to you in due course,” he added.