PLIGHT OF THE UNIVERSITY OF NAIROBIState of affairs of our University of Nairobi#AccommodationFeesMustFall#UoNOnStrike
The Spaces discusses significant challenges faced by the University of Nairobi students, focusing on increased accommodation fees, absence of a university council, and inadequate facilities. Students expressed dissatisfaction with hiked accommodation costs from 7,000 to over 40,000 shillings, impacting those from humble backgrounds. The absence of a council inhibits decision-making, affecting internships and faculty operations. Highlighting student grievances, calls for reduced accommodation fees and improved hostel conditions were central. The discourse indicated students' readiness to protest if demands were unmet, aiming for equitable access to education.
University of Nairobi Crisis Discussion
Overview
Cecilia, a medical student from Baghdad, Iraq, initiated the discussion to address profound issues currently affecting the University of Nairobi. This space was created to engage students passionate about student matters, particularly in light of the challenges faced by the university.
Key Issues Raised
1. Accommodation Fees
Cecilia highlighted the exorbitant hike in accommodation fees from Ksh 7,000 to a range of Ksh 43,000-52,000, depending on the faculty, which is significantly impacting students' ability to afford housing. The increase reportedly occurred in 2022, and the quality provided does not match the fee paid by students. Many students come from average or humble backgrounds, making it difficult to access accommodations, which in turn affects their academic performance and welfare. Some students are left with no choice but to seek cheaper but insecure accommodations far from the campus.
2. Lack of University Council
The university lacks a governing council, which is critical for decision-making processes such as the appointment of the Vice Chancellor, ratifying policies, and handling budget approvals. The absence of a council has led to stagnation in essential decision-making capacities, leaving significant roles filled by individuals in acting capacity for prolonged periods. This has impeded the university from making long-term, sustainable decisions.
3. Delayed Salaries and Academic Challenges
There have been delays in salary and allowance payments for lecturers, affecting academic schedules and outputs. Notably, pharmacy students faced delays in receiving results and internship placements due to these financial issues, effectively wasting a year of their potential career progression.
4. Transportation Issues
Students who require transport for academic trips and rotations face obstacles due to issues with bus provisions—sometimes lacking fuel or availability—despite paying fees meant to cover these costs. This scenario underscores the misalignment between school resources and logistical requirements.
5. Licensing and Accreditation Problems
Students from the medical laboratory science faculty have struggled to obtain licenses following program completion due to wrangles between the university and the licensing board, affecting career preparedness.
Students’ Perspectives
Critical Views on Administration
SG and other student leaders spoke intensively about the ongoing issues at the university—specifically the prolonged absence of a functioning council and the recurring accommodation difficulties. There was a call for immediate action and the potential for student protest if fees are not reduced, emphasizing that the university should not admit first-year students until these issues are resolved.
Protests and Actions
Students expressed frustrations with the administration’s resistance to change and threatened further protest actions, including boycotting hostel admittance and possibly engaging in strikes if the administration does not comply with their demands.
Call for Unity
Reece emphasized the need for student unity in tackling these challenges, asserting that each student must advocate for better conditions at the university. They highlighted the adverse mental health impacts on students due to inadequate housing and educational facilities.
Ethical and Legal Perspectives
Legal council Mel emphasized that education is a right enshrined in the constitution and should not be compromised by high accommodation fees and subpar living conditions. He also noted the irony and madness within the university’s administrative decisions, advocating for public accountability and reform.
Conclusion and Call to Action
The conversation ended with a reiteration of the urgent need for collective student action to address the fundamental issues regarding accommodation fees, university governance, and the broader state of academic facilities. Speakers emphasized a call to action demanding change and accountability from the university administration to improve students’ welfare and academic experience. The discussion underscored a vital movement within the student body, aiming to establish a functional, equitable education environment.