Citizen TV anchor and talk show host Yvonne Okwara on Thursday, October 24, gave a moving tribute to her teachers, who she intimated had played a big role in moulding her.
She regretted that teachers hadn't been receiving recognition for the very important part they play in shaping students.
"No amount of money can equal what the teachers can do, and that is why their joy is seeing that those who pass through their hands become the best that they can be," she spoke.
She revisited the recent achievements by Kenyan teachers who have been recognized the world over for their dedication to the profession.
"This year, our teachers have received the highest accolades in the world for their achievements. Peter Tabichi, the science teacher who gives 80 per cent of his salary to the poor, awarded the Global Teacher Prize, and Erik Ademba, who was recognized for his quality teaching and encouraging desirable behaviour in students," she stated.
She stated that the two tutors represent the selflessness that those in the teaching profession possess, in their efforts mould students. The screen siren noted that teachers spend nine months in a year with students, while parents only spend three months.
"Tonight, allow me to pay tribute to those who have taught and shaped me. Here's to Perreira, my kindergarten teacher who encouraged my curious nature, knowing that it would one day help me with my career," she stated.
She then recognized one Katiku, her Maths teacher in primary school, and Karuga, her primary school headmaster, who she narrated allowed her to pursue her dreams of public speaking and poetry.
"I would also like to pay tribute to all my high school teachers who helped make a lady out of me and helped instill values of character and integrity, and Mberia, the botanist and trade unionist who taught me the value of trees and workers' rights," she continued.
"I want to leave you with the words of Christa McAuliffe, an American teacher and astronaut from New Hampshire, who died in the Challenger Space Shuttle explosion. She said 'I have touched the future, because I teach', and that is my take tonight," Yvonne concluded.
