Why Kenyatta University students were protesting and campus closure notice

Kenyatta University was closed on 8^th October 2019 following two days student protests. Below is a follow up update on why the university was closed.

Reasons why Kenyatta University were protesting

The demonstrations started on 7^th October 2019 where students engaged the police in running battles along Thika Road. It proceeded to the second day of 8th October 2019 when the administration made the decision to close the university.

Here is why the protest:

• Students were demonstrating against the increment of graduation fee from Ksh. 3500 to 6000.
• The unlawful sacking of more than 700 casual workers without any notice.
• Early deadline of  payment of school fees which is  4 weeks after opening day or pay a fine for late fee payment.
• Not offering of supplementary exams for all courses. Students considered this as a scheme designed by the management to make students pay fees for exam retakes.
• Directing students to use the flyover at Nyayo zone and suspension of students and student leaders .

For the stated reasons above, the students led by their leader Joshua Ayika wanted the resignation of the institution’s vice chancellor.

University Closure Notice

After the students protest, the university issued a notice of closure of the institution which read;

“Following disturbances by some students from yesterday 7th October, 2019 to today 8th October 2019 that have led to disruption of lecturers and destruction of university property, the University Senate has decided to close the University until further notice.

In view of the foregoing, all students are required to vacate the university premised immediately”