Secondary school is one of the most important growth phases for a learner because it not only shapes their career path but it is also a formative stage for discipline.
In appreciation of their teachers' input in such a crucial stage, Kenyans have cultivated a culture of returning to their former schools to show their appreciation.
Kenyans.co.ke compiled a list of Kenyan leaders who embraced the culture of uplifting former teachers for the role they played in their success.
Otiende Amollo
Rarieda Member of Parliament Otiende Amollo warmed Kenyan hearts in July 2021 after he teamed with his former classmates from Maranda High School to surprise their former headteacher Ezekiel Akunja Rachuonyo.
During the visit, the class of ’89 showered their former headteacher with gifts and thanked him for shaping their lives.
"In the company Of Erstwhile Classmates of Maranda (Class Of 89), we called on our then principal and his wife, Mary Akunja. The wife also taught us. We gave them as many gifts as we could," Amollo stated.
Rigathi Gachagua
The Deputy President in January 2023 invited his former principal at Kianyaga High School, Julius Kano Ndumbi, to his office at Harambee Annex office in Nairobi.
Gachagua noted that it was Ndumbi who played a big role in shaping his leadership journey as Kianyaga was the stepping stone that led to him ultimately occupying the second highest office in the land.
Dorcas Rigathi
The Second Lady on Sunday, June 23, visited her alma mater, Alliance Girls High School, to appreciate how the institution had moulded her and guided her towards a path of success.
During the visit, Pastor Dorcas surprised Dr Njeri Karanja her former teacher for her contributions to the academic and management growth of the institution.
To show her sincere appreciation, she sponsored two needy students from the institution as her way of giving back to the institution.
Alex Chamwada
Journalist Alex Chamwada on January 2022, united with former classmates to visit Mumias Boys High School, 30 years after departing from the institution.
During the visit, the team honoured their former principal Cassianus Ijait Aluku, remarking that he had guided them to success.
The principal was showered with gifts including goats and the alumni team further contributed in constructing two sciences labs and one Information and Technology lab.
Rachel Ruto
First Lady Rachel Ruto on June 9, 2023, made a surprise visit to her alma mater, Butere Girls High School, to appreciate the institution’s role in her formative years.
During the visit, Rachel Ruto motivated the students by showing them that with hard work, all dreams are valid.
The First Lady had earlier visited the school in 2017 during the Alumni Weekend Mentorship where she turned up donning Butere Girls school uniform.
