Changamwe: Changamwe MP Omar Mwinyi has advocated for a holistic approach that prioritizes teacher motivation and commitment to address significant educational challenges. Speaking during a consultative meeting with over 500 teachers at the St. Charles Lwanga Secondary School, the legislator cited the declining performance, teacher demotivation, high school dropout rates, overcrowded classrooms, and limited parental involvement as some of the challenges facing the education sector in the coastal region.
According to Kenya News Agency, Mwinyi emphasized the fundamental role teachers play in nation-building by shaping the intellectual, social, and moral character of students. He highlighted that teachers’ responsibilities extend beyond delivering lessons as they nurture future leaders, innovators, and responsible citizens. Mwinyi noted that a motivated teacher could transform an underperforming student into a high achiever, whereas a disengaged one might contribute to declining academic standards.
The MP pledged to support teachers in their duties to produce learners who will transform the country, urging learners to remain disciplined and respectful towards their teachers. Mwinyi also advocated for life skills lessons outside of the normal school program to guide students in real-life situations, encouraging schools to nurture role models to inspire learners. He reminisced about how teachers previously took time before lessons to impart life lessons and impactful advice, which he feels is currently lacking.
Airport MCA Ibrahim Omondi encouraged parents to invest in their children’s education to reap future benefits. Nicholas Kaito, Assistant County Commissioner, mentioned the government’s multi-agency approach to combating drug abuse among students. Meanwhile, Dan Aloo, KNUT Kilindini SG, appealed to Parliament for the timely disbursement of capitation, emphasizing the need for funds to be disbursed two weeks before schools open.
Linet Khamadi, SG KUPPET Mombasa Chapter, praised the MP for prioritizing education and teacher involvement, stressing that teachers are the drivers of the education sector. She highlighted the importance of timely capitation disbursement to streamline learning, ensuring retention of learners and payment of utilities and staff salaries.
Sub-County Director of Education Fatuma Omara pointed out issues such as inadequate teaching staff, high poverty levels, and drug and substance abuse affecting exam performance. She expressed concern over incidents of students engaging in criminal activities, including instances where students took exams in prison, questioning the feasibility of achieving high performance in such conditions. Omara revealed that many teachers at JSS are demotivated as they face the expectation to teach in senior schools.