On October 5, 2023, World Teachers' Day marked a momentous occasion as Rosemary Bosibori Onyancha, an alumna of Kabarak University, was declared the winner of the 2023 African Union's Continental Best Teacher Award. She outshone 108 competitors from 54 countries across the continent, making it a truly remarkable achievement.
The selection process for the award was demanding, assessing the quality of teaching, the ability to instill positive behavior, effective management, and a track record of high achievement as an educator. Rosemary's dedication and expertise clearly set her apart, earning her not only continental recognition but also a substantial monetary reward of over $10,000 (approximately Sh1,498,500).
However, Rosemary's journey goes beyond personal accolades. She serves as a beacon of hope and transformation for the more than 1,600 girls at Moi Forces Academy. Her commitment to enhancing digital technology solutions and fostering a positive attitude towards technology and science has had a profound impact, even extending to neighboring schools in Nakuru County. In 2022, the number of students choosing Computer Studies as a core subject surged from 70 to 154, underscoring the far-reaching effect of her dedication.
Rosemary's passion for technology and her conviction about its role in education remain unwavering. She firmly believes that technology, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), can revolutionize education by enhancing student engagement and teaching styles. Embracing AI is not merely an option but a necessity, as it equips students with a deeper understanding of course materials.
This award reinforces her commitment to giving back to society and inspires her to continue shaping the leaders of tomorrow. Rosemary's journey, from Kabarak University to this momentous achievement, underscores the power of community service and the transformative impact of teaching. As a certified Google educator, she empowers teachers and students, making a difference that extends far beyond the classroom. The award-winning teacher envisions a future where Nakuru County becomes Kenya's Silicon Valley, a hub for innovation and technology.
In a world where teachers face challenges such as emerging technologies and resource disparities, Rosemary's story stands as a testament to the qualities of a great teacher: organizational skills, discipline, time management, and an unwavering commitment to learning and skill development. Her passion for education equity has driven her to make a difference in the lives of students from diverse backgrounds, emphasizing that teaching goes beyond academics. Rosemary's journey from the hallowed halls of Kabarak University to this distinguished recognition serves as an inspiration to teachers and students alike, bringing the dream of Vision 2023 and Africa's Agenda 2063 closer to reality.
This remarkable achievement reflects Kabarak University's commitment to providing world-class education.
On behalf of the Kabarak University community, the Vice-Chancellor extends heartfelt congratulations to Rosemary. We are tremendously proud of her accomplishments.
Photo credit: Francis Mureithi
SOURCE: Nation Media Group
