Jepkosgei Chemoiwa, a Physics and Mathematics teacher at Emining Boys High School in Baringo County, was feted on September 10 for her outstanding dedication to excellence and innovation in the classroom.
The award, established in 2019, celebrates teachers across Africa who go beyond academics to foster positive values, inspire critical thinking and drive community transformation.
In a statement, the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) hailed the recognition, describing it as both a personal triumph for Chemoiwa and a national milestone.
“On behalf of the Teachers Service Commission and the entire education fraternity in Kenya, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Jepkosgei Chemoiwa for being honoured with the 2025 African Union Continental Best Teacher Award,” said acting TSC chief executive officer Eveleen Mitei.
She noted that Chemoiwa’s success affirms the high calibre of Kenyan teachers whose work has consistently been recognised internationally.
“This prestigious recognition affirms Chemoiwa’s unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and transformative teaching. Her dedication to nurturing scientific inquiry and critical thinking among learners exemplifies the highest ideals of the teaching profession,” Mitei said.
The commission added that her win reflects personal dedication as well as Kenya’s position as a hub of exemplary teaching talent across the continent.
Mitei said the award reinforces teachers’ collective resolve to invest in quality education for all.
“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,” she stated.
Kenya has previously celebrated teachers who rose to international acclaim.
In March 2019, Peter Tabichi, a science teacher at Keriko Mixed Day Secondary School in Pwani Village, Nakuru, was awarded the Global Teacher Prize.
He received $1 million (about Sh129 million at today’s exchange rate) for his extraordinary commitment, having donated 80 per cent of his salary to learners from underprivileged backgrounds who could not afford uniforms or books.
The AU’s Continental Best Teacher Award is conferred in partnership with UNESCO’s International Institute for Capacity Building in Africa.
It is anchored on the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the Continental Education Strategy for Africa (CESA 16-25), which prioritise quality education as the backbone of development.
As Chemoiwa joins the ranks of Africa’s most celebrated educators, her story shines a light on the transformative power of teaching and the enduring impact of teachers who dedicate their lives to shaping future generations.
