Peter Mokaya Tabichi, a Kenyan teacher from Nakuru County, has won the 2019 Global Teacher Prize. Photo courtesy KBC
DUBAI, March 25 (NNN-KBC) – The Varkey Foundation’s $1 million (Ksh.100 million) Global Teacher Prize honors one exceptional teacher every year.
Tabichi, a Mathematics and Physics teacher at Keriko Mixed Day Secondary School in Pwani Village, Nakuru was announced as the winner of the global prize on Sunday evening at a ceremony held in Dubai.
He has been praised for his achievements in a deprived school with crowded classes and few textbooks.
Tabachi gives away 80% of his pay to support pupils, at the Keriko Mixed Day Secondary School in Pwani Village, Nakuru, who otherwise cannot afford uniforms or books.
His win was announced on stage by movie star Hugh Jackman at the Global Education and Skills Forum.
“He’s changed the lives of his students in many ways, including the introduction of science clubs and the promotion of peace between different ethnic groups and religions. He has also helped to address food insecurity among the wider community in the famine-prone Rift Valley,” said the Varkey Foundation.
Tabichi, becomes the first African and male teacher to win the global award, he emerged winner out of 10 finalists who were among 10,000 applicants for the award.
President Uhuru Kenyatta has congratulated Tabichi, saying he is “a shining example of what the human spirit can achieve.”
“On behalf of all Kenyans let me congratulate you on winning the Global Teacher Prize for this year. You are a shining example on what the human spirit can achieve not just for Kenya, not just for Africa but the world.
“Peter you chose to teach in a remote part of Kenya and transform lives in such situations. A choice that am sure was difficult. You give me faith that Africa’s best days are ahead of us and your story will light the way for all future generations,” said President Kenyatta on Sunday.