Moi University Begins Firing Up To 800 Staff

Moi University has begun another mass layoff exercise by issuing redundancy letters to staff, in line with restructuring plans announced earlier this year.

In a memo circulated on Wednesday, May 14, employees of the formerly renowned institution were notified of their upcoming termination and instructed to collect official letters confirming their layoffs.

One of the letters obtained by Viral Tea revealed that the university's financial constraints have necessitated the layoffs. Unconfirmed reports reveal that up to 800 staff could be affected by the exercise.

"We regret to inform you that due to financial constraints currently facing the University, a decision has been made to implement a Right-Sizing Exercise, which we have carried out in compliance with Section 40 of the Employment Act, 2007 and the provisions of the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreement," the memo read in part.

A gate leading to Moi University. /MOI UNIVERSITY

"Following a thorough review of the University's operational needs and financial sustainability, your position has been identified as one of those affected by the redundancy process."

The university administration informed staff that the 'right-sizing exercise' had been finalised following comprehensive consultations with key stakeholders.

In a memo signed by Acting Vice Chancellor Prof. Kiplagat Kotut, employees were directed to collect either their retention or redundancy letters from their respective departments between Wednesday and Friday of this week.

A follow-up text message sent to all university staff stated: “Collect your retention or redundancy letter from May 14 to 16, 2025, at the Main Campus or the School of Tourism, Hospitality and Event Management (STHEM). Please check your email or staff portal for further details.”

"Accordingly, this letter serves as formal notice that your employment with the University will be terminated on the grounds of redundancy, effective 30 days from the date of this letter. Please be assured that this decision is in no way a reflection of your performance or conduct, but rather a necessary organisational response to financial constraints beyond our control," added the letter.

"We kindly request that you return any University property in your possession by your last working day to facilitate a seamless clearance process as stipulated in your employment contract."

The memo followed an earlier notice in which the university disclosed plans to reduce its workforce due to ongoing financial difficulties. In that notice, the institution indicated that job cuts across multiple departments were likely, following an assessment of its operational demands and long-term financial viability.

A significant drop in student enrollment, resulting in reduced revenue and an inability to meet financial commitments, was cited as a major factor driving the redundancy measures.

The university, under the leadership of Vice Chancellor Kiplagat Kotut, held consultations with the affected employees and their union representatives to ensure the process complied with legal requirements.

“Our objective is to explore all possible alternatives to limit the impact of the redundancy, including potential redeployment or alternative roles where possible,” Kotut stated, adding, “We will ensure full compliance with the provisions of the Employment Act, individual contracts, and the UASU CBA 2012/2013.”

This redundancy comes after the university's Council sent Vice Chancellor Isaac Kosgey on a compulsory 8-month annual leave effective January 30, 2025.

A letter addressed to Kosgey revealed that the VC had continuously accumulated his leave days past the stipulated 45 working leave days, a matter which raised concerns.

Former Moi University Vice-Chancellor Isaac Kosgey, who was sent on compulsory leave. /MOI UNIVERSITY