On Wednesday, Oct. 21, University of Nairobi students blocked sections of the busy Waiyaki Way, lighting bonfires and burning tyres to press for an end to the ongoing lecturers’ strike.

The demonstrators erected stone barricades, forced motorists onto alternative routes and carried placards, twigs and whistles while chanting slogans against the government.

UNSA president Ahmed Rashid used the protest to call on Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba to resign and urged students from other universities to join the demand for accountability.

The protest follows a 72‑hour ultimatum issued by the University of Nairobi Students Association, warning that students would take to the streets if the lecturers’ strike was not resolved.

The nationwide strike began on Oct. 2 after university staff unions said the government had failed to implement the 2025‑2029 Collective Bargaining Agreement, which covers salaries and allowances.

UASU secretary‑general Constantine Wasonga stressed that the agreement requires a clear financial commitment from the National Treasury before it can be signed and fully implemented.

Student leaders warned they would continue daily demonstrations until lecturers receive payment and the dispute is settled, citing disruption to lectures, examinations and uncertainty over graduation timelines.