This study examined industrial strikes in higher education: Ascertaining causes and the levels of effect from a developing economy perspective. The study adopted the positivist philosophical position and a quantitative approach to collect data from 523 staff members of 30 Colleges of Education in a developing economy situated in Africa. Data analysis was performed using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). The study found that strikes among higher education staff in developing economies were influenced by both economic and non-economic factors. These factors subsequently affected productivity at Colleges of Education and subsequently affected students, teachers and the country as a whole. Based on the findings of the study, it was recommended that the management of Colleges of Education that also doubles as the representatives of the employer or government should improve the condition of service for employees at the college by enhancing their salary, other allowances and fringe benefits.