Moi University has terminated the services of 890 employees following the conclusion of a far-reaching staff right-sizing exercise, the institution has announced.
In an official communication, the university stated that the exercise was finalised after “extensive consultations with various stakeholders.” This marks one of the largest staff layoffs in Kenya’s higher education sector in recent years, signalling ongoing financial and structural challenges within public universities.
Affected staff members have been asked to collect their retention or redundancy notification letters between Wednesday, 14 May 2025 and Friday, 23 May 2025. The letters will be distributed at designated venues on campus during official working hours. Staff members have been advised to carry their Personal File Number and National Identity Card to facilitate the process.
The schedule for collection is as follows:
| Date | Time | Venue | Unions Involved |
|---|---|---|---|
| 14 May 2025 | 2:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. | Central Registry | UASU and KUDHEIHA |
| 14 May 2025 | 2:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. | Eatery | KUSU |
| 15 May 2025 | 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. | Central Registry | UASU and KUDHEIHA |
| 15 May 2025 | 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. | Eatery | KUSU |
| 15 May 2025 | 2:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. | STEM Restaurant | UASU, KUSU and KUDHEIHA |
| 16 May 2025 | 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. | STEM Restaurant | UASU, KUSU and KUDHEIHA |
The mass layoff is expected to have significant implications for both the university and the local economy, particularly in Uasin Gishu County where Moi University is a key employer.
University officials have not yet disclosed the criteria used for the downsizing or whether compensation packages will be offered. However, union representatives from UASU, KUSU, and KUDHEIHA have been actively involved in the process, indicating ongoing negotiations around staff welfare.
