UoN Criticized for Offering Ksh.50 per Hour in Work Study Program.
The University of Nairobi (UoN) has come under fire for revealing the specifics of its Work Study Programme (WSP) for the September-December 2024 semester, which pays only Ksh.50 per hour.
UoN officially developed the WSP to provide registered students with practical work opportunities in university departments, partner industries, government institutions, private sector organizations, and civil society groups.
The initiative strives to help underprivileged students while also expanding their professional skill sets.
UoN Dean of Students and Career Services Jonson Ireri Kinyua encouraged them to apply for the program in an internal memo sent to them on Tuesday, stating that preference will be given to individuals registered as poor and vulnerable at their respective Assistant Dean of Students Offices.
Kinyua stated that students must be registered for the current academic year (2024/2025) and noted that those on suspension, deferment, or facing disciplinary cases would not be eligible. He emphasized that the Assistant Dean of Students Office will give priority to applicants fully registered as needy or vulnerable students.
He further stated that he would prioritize applicants who meet the criteria and have not previously benefited from Work Study Programs or any other sponsorship, and he strongly encouraged students with disabilities to apply.
The WSP program will subject students to stringent selection standards before identifying them as successful applicants.
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“Those who are successful will be expected to assist with various duties as described and assigned by their immediate supervisor.” Kinyua explained that the students will receive an hourly stipend of KES 50.
Kinyua explained that those interested in the available positions under the work-study program should fill out and submit the form no later than Monday, September 9, 2024.
While the initiative is welcomed for its goal of assisting economically disadvantaged students, the low hourly wage of Ksh.50 has sparked a wave of discontent among some Kenyans, who argue that the rate is insufficient given the current cost of living and the value of the work being performed.
UoN Criticized for Offering Ksh.50 per Hour in Work Study Program.
