Kenya joins the world in honouring teachers

A teacher with pupils at a Kenyan school. /FILE

Kenya is this Sunday joining the rest of the world in marking World Teachers’ Day dedicated to celebrating the vital role of teachers and their contributions to education.

Observed annually on October 5, the day was first established in 1994 by the United Nations to commemorate the signing of the Unesco Recommendation on the Status of Teachers in 1966, a landmark declaration often referred to as “Teaching in Freedom”.

It is not a public holiday, but rather a day of reflection, advocacy and appreciation for teachers.

Unesco in partnership with agencies such as Unicef, the International Labour Organization (ILO), the United Nations Development Programme and Education International, spearheads the campaign to raise awareness on the challenges teachers face, particularly in developing countries, while promoting the value of education at all levels.

This year’s theme is “Recasting teaching as a collaborative profession”.

The theme underscores the collective nature of teaching and the profession’s pivotal role in shaping society.

Overall, without teachers, no one would learn to read or write, do even basic math, or master a host of other subjects and skills that we often take for granted.

In Kenya, the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), working with the Ministry of Education, teachers’ unions and other stakeholders, will lead national celebrations at the Kasarani Sports Gymnasium in Nairobi.

The event will bring together educators, policymakers and partners to pay tribute to the impact of teachers in classrooms and communities.

“In collaboration with key partners and stakeholders, join us in honouring teachers for their dedication and impact in classrooms, communities and beyond,” TSC said in a statement on Friday.

As part of build-up activities, the commission coordinated a national tree-planting exercise from September 29 to October 3, underscoring the role of teachers in promoting sustainability and civic responsibility among learners.

The celebrations come on the back of a proud moment for the profession.

On September 10, Jepkosgei Chemoiwa, a Physics and Mathematics teacher at Emining Boys High School in Baringo county, was named the 2025 African Union Continental Best Teacher.

The award, which was introduced in 2019, recognises educators across Africa who demonstrate excellence not only in academic instruction but also in fostering positive values, inspiring critical thinking and driving transformation in their communities.

Chemoiwa was honoured for her innovative methods of teaching and her dedication to nurturing scientific inquiry among learners.

Her recognition has been hailed as a milestone not only for her personally but also for Kenya’s education fraternity.

“Her exemplary service inspires a renewed sense of purpose and pride among teachers across the country and reinforces our collective resolve to invest in quality education for all,” said TSC acting chief executive officer Eveleen Mitei.

The commission also commended Equity Bank, the title sponsor of this year’s celebrations, for its consistent support to initiatives aimed at strengthening teacher training and well-being.

As the world takes stock of the indispensable role of teachers, this year’s commemorations are expected to highlight both the triumphs and the pressing challenges that shape the teaching profession.

It will also be a momentous occasion where it's highly expected that renewed calls for investment in quality education as a foundation for sustainable development will be made.