Kibabii University in Kenya has suspended teaching and learning indefinitely due to violent student protests. The unrest began after a third-year student was reportedly killed and three others injured in a night attack. The university's Senate made the decision during a special meeting on October 6, 2026, citing student unrest as the reason for the immediate suspension of academic activities.
The fatal attack occurred on Monday night, with the victim being rushed to a hospital in Bungoma where he was pronounced dead. Three other students were injured and taken to hospital for treatment. This incident sparked widespread anger among students, leading to protests over their security and demands for action.
Student protests turned chaotic as they clashed with police officers attempting to contain the unrest. Students attempted to retrieve the body of their deceased colleague from a local hospital, further escalating tensions. The protests disrupted activities around the institution, with students blocking roads and halting transport and business activities.
In response to the unrest, the university ordered all students to vacate the premises by 3 pm on October 6. An internal memo issued by the Registrar of Academic Affairs, Jacklyne Okello Alari, directed students to leave immediately. Students living in university hostels were also ordered to vacate the accommodation facilities by the same deadline.
The university advised students living in the neighbourhood to seek alternative accommodation until teaching and learning activities resume. No specific date has been given for the resumption of academic activities, leaving students uncertain about their future. This development has added to the challenges faced by students and staff due to the ongoing nationwide lecturers' strike.
The closure of Kibabii University coincides with an ongoing nationwide strike by the Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU), which began on October 2, 2026. The strike involves demands over the conclusion and implementation of the 2025–2029 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), funding of university employees' salaries, and other human resource matters.
The industrial action has affected public universities across Kenya, with lecturers at Kibabii University participating in the nationwide demonstrations. The situation remains uncertain as students and staff await further communication from the university regarding the resumption of academic activities. The university's decision to close indefinitely has left many with concerns about the impact on their academic calendar and future.
Key points
- Kibabii University closed indefinitely due to violent student protests following a fatal attack on students.
- The university's closure coincides with an ongoing nationwide lecturers' strike in Kenya.
- All students were ordered to vacate the university premises by 3 pm on October 6, 2026.
