Tributes flow for educator killed in road accident

The education sector is in mourning following the untimely demise of Kenya Primary Schools Heads Association (KEPSHA) National Chairman Johnson Nzioka, who was killed in a road accident on Mombasa Road near Athi Rive, Sunday.

The loss has been met with an outpouring of grief from teachers’ unions, education stakeholders and colleagues, all of whom recognise Nzioka’s contribution to the sector.

Basic Education Principal Secretary Belio Kipsang termed him a pillar in the sector.

“He was a dedicated leader and a passionate educator whose unwavering commitment to improving primary education has left an indelible mark on learners, teachers and school administrators,” said Kipsang.

“His leadership, vision, and tireless efforts in championing the welfare of headteachers and quality education will be greatly missed.”

Teachers Service Commission CEO Nancy Macharia described him as one of Kenya’s most respected academic stalwarts, praising his dedication to improving education standards.

“Kenya has lost one of its most gallant academic soldiers, a man who will be deeply missed by the teaching fraternity and the entire education sector,” she said.

The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers Secretary-General, Akelo Misori, termed the death a painful moment for the education fraternity.

“His commitment, leadership, and passion for education will continue to inspire future generations,” he said, while highlighting Nzioka’s unwavering dedication to improving primary education and advocating for the rights of school heads.

Kenya National Union of Teachers Secretary-General Collins Oyuu acknowledged Nzioka’s diplomatic leadership and commitment to reforming KEPSHA into a globally recognised teachers’ association.

“Brother Nzioka was an exemplary leader who stood out as a great mobiliser and negotiator for headteachers’ welfare,” said Oyuu.

National Parents Association Chairman Silas Obuhatsa mourned the loss, saying, “We shall miss him and his good work in the education sector.”

Member of the National Assembly’s Education Committee and Lugari MP, Nabii Nabwera, described Nzioka as a visionary educationist who always prioritised the welfare of learners.

“Nzioka was an educationist of impeccable character. A man who lived what he believed in — the welfare of the learner,” said Nabwera.

The Kenya Women Teachers Association CEO, Benta Opande, hailed Nzioka for his commitment to fostering collaboration within the education sector.

“His leadership was marked by strong partnerships and cooperation. Together, we have worked tirelessly to empower and support teachers across the country, advocating for their professional and personal growth,” she said.

Kenya Private Schools Association Chairman Charles Ochome cited Nzioka’s unwavering commitment to improving the quality of education in the country.

Kenya Secondary Schools Heads Association Chairman Willis Kuria said: “He will be remembered for his soft but forthright speaking, especially while brokering peace among his members.”

At the time of his passing, he was leading efforts to register the Education Stakeholders Association of Kenya, an umbrella body bringing together 11 different associations.

Nzioka, 57, was also the headteacher of Donholm Primary School in Nairobi and had dedicated 38 years to serving in education.

A sombre mood engulfed the school as teachers, students, and parents struggled to come to terms with the tragic death.

He rose from a classroom teacher in 1987 to head teacher in 2012 and was later elected as KEPSHA’s chair, a role in which he championed the welfare of more than 23,000 primary school heads.

“We are still in shock. He was a father figure in the school who unified everyone. He has made us live like one family regardless of individual status,” a teacher said.

Nzioka rose from a classroom teacher in 1987 to headteacher in 2012 and later being elected as KEPSHA’s national chairman, a role in which he championed the welfare of over 23,000 primary school heads across the country.

He was also active in sports administration, serving as Vice-Chairperson of the Kenya Primary Schools Sports Association and Organising Secretary for the Federation of East African Primary Schools Headteachers.

He held a Higher Diploma in Education Management from the Kenya Education Management Institute (KEMI) and a Bachelor of Education degree from East African University.