University of Nairobi students issue 14-day strike notice over new loan scheme

 The University of Nairobi Student Association (UNSA) has announced a 14-day strike notice in protest of the government's move to create committees that will reassess educational loans under a new scheme.

Led by their president, Rocha Madzao, the student body has voiced strong disapproval of the government's decision, asserting that the proposed changes fail to address the actual needs of students and run counter to the nation’s educational goals.

In a recent press release, Madzao raised concerns regarding the establishment of four committees tasked with resolving issues related to the loan scheme. The UNSA leadership believes these committees will not solve the core problems students face and are calling for urgent action to address their grievances.

The student groups, who rely heavily on affordable education, are feeling increasingly marginalized by the government's focus on infrastructure development rather than prioritizing educational access.

“Why establish a Loans Committee when we’ve already expressed that we don't want loans?” Madzao questioned. “The government should be prioritizing education for everyone. How can they borrow billions for infrastructure while forcing us to pay loans for our education?”

Madzao also took issue with the government's lack of transparency and failure to fulfill promises made to voters.

He argued that the commitments made during political campaigns, especially those aimed at supporting the youth and underprivileged, are being ignored in favor of policies that serve the elite.