UASU Maseno Chapter AGM: A Year of Advocacy, Achievements, and Resolve
UASU Maseno Chapter AGM: A Year of Advocacy, Achievements, and Resolve
Chapter Secretary responding to members questions
Kisumu, Kenya: The University Academic Staff Union (UASU) Maseno Chapter held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on November 22, 2024, at Kisumu Hotel, marking a historic milestone with a record number of members in attendance—more than any past AGM. The meeting reflected on a year of significant achievements, persistent challenges, and unwavering solidarity among members.
Honoring Prof. Alfred Manyonge
The AGM opened with a solemn tribute to the late Prof. Alfred Manyonge from the School of Mathematics. Prof. Manyonge, who passed on December 9, 2023, was remembered as a brilliant scholar and an ardent supporter of UASU. Members observed a moment of silence in his honor, celebrating his dedication to academic excellence and unionism.
Key Achievements
The meeting highlighted several landmark accomplishments over the past year:
1. Victory in Employment Disputes
The Employment and Labour Relations Court (ELRC) upheld the re-election of Chapter Secretary Dr. Stephen Okeyo in November 2023, reinforcing democratic principles within the union. Additionally, the court ordered his reinstatement to Maseno University, underscoring the protection of members’ rights and union values.
2. Progress in Collective Bargaining
Following the signing of the Return-To-Work Formula (RTWF) in September 2024, negotiations for the 2021-2025 National Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) gained momentum. Despite opposition from the Ministry of Education and the Inter-Public Universities Councils Consultative Forum (IPUCCF), union members demonstrated resilience through strategic strikes and protests.
3. Promoting Inclusivity
The union prioritized accessibility by facilitating the installation of ramps and disability-friendly washrooms across key university buildings. This initiative underscores UASU’s commitment to enhancing facilities for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
4. Financial and Policy Wins
Pension Contributions: Outstanding pension arrears were successfully remitted, allowing members to access updated statements.
Bereavement Benevolent Fund (BBF): Members resolved to adopt the council’s recommendation of an insurance-based model to sustain the fund for supporting bereaved families effectively.
Addressing Challenges
While celebrating these milestones, members acknowledged ongoing challenges and took decisive actions to address them:
1. Workload Reduction
The imposition of five courses per semester, already declared illegal by the courts, remains a contentious issue. As per the judgment and Commission for University Education (CUE) guidelines, members unanimously resolved that from now on, they will only undertake the normal and legal teaching load of three courses per semester.
2. Medical Scheme Challenges
Members raised concerns about congestion at clinics, limited medical supplies, and inefficiencies in the current medical scheme. However, they remain hopeful that the proposed National CBA will address these issues by implementing a comprehensive medical plan for academic staff. The union pledged to continue engaging management to improve the scheme in the interim.
3. Academic Leadership Appointments
Members resolved that Heads of Departments (HODs) and Deans should be appointed through competitive processes, in accordance with Maseno University statutes. Furthermore, it was agreed that Deans should be elected by academic staff, as is the practice in other public universities. The union will petition the University Council to adopt and implement this resolution.
Unity and Call to Action
In his remarks, Chapter Chairman Dr. George K’Otuto emphasized the importance of solidarity, stating, “United we bargain, divided we beg.” He urged members to remain engaged and vigilant in union activities. Chapter Secretary Dr. Stephen Okeyo echoed these sentiments, highlighting the need for collective action to address unresolved issues.
Upcoming Initiatives
The AGM concluded with a commitment to:
- Advocacy Open Days: Empowering members with skills to advance collective bargaining efforts.
- Healthcare Improvements: Collaborating with management to revamp the medical scheme.
- Membership Drives: Increasing member engagement in union activities.
Members left the meeting with a renewed resolve to champion the rights of academic staff and foster a stronger union.