In a world where education is the cornerstone of progress, recognizing exceptional educators becomes crucial. 2023 witnessed a momentous occasion as Rosemary Bosibori Onyancha, an outstanding teacher from Kenya, won the coveted African Union’s Continental Best Teacher Award. The Moi Forces Academy Lanet school teacher beat 108 others from over 50 counties to clinch the Ksh. 1.5 million prize.
Ms Onyancha’s Victorious Efforts
Ms. Onyancha was among eight remarkable educators from various African nations, including Ghana, Malawi, Mauritania, Mauritius, Morocco, Nigeria, and South Africa, who were celebrated for their exceptional work.
Diana Bosibori Onyancha was recognized due to her efforts to include technology such as Artificial Intelligence into learning. She was also awarded for her vigorous advocacy for STEM education.
Gratitude
While Ms Onyancha expressed her disbelief at her victory, she hoped it would inspire more teachers to embrace technology in their classrooms.
Honestly, I didn’t see this award coming home; Africa is a big continent with many gifted teachers. It is hard to believe that I am the best teacher among hundreds of thousands of teachers; I believe the award is coming at the best time and will inspire other teachers and me to bring fresh perspectives, skills, commitment and experience to our learners in this crucial subject of technology,” she said after winning the award.
Said Ms Onyancha in part
Ms. Onyancha further stated that the award was a reminder that good deeds are recognized. She hoped to encourage teachers to keep molding future leaders, as their efforts will be rewarded in due time.
“It will remind me as a teacher to never get tired of giving back to society and the small things that you are doing; someone and our God in heaven are watching. The award is an eye-opener; God’s time is indeed the best. I urge teachers to keep moulding future leaders, and one day their efforts will be handsomely rewarded,”
she added.
The African Union’s Continental Best Teacher Award
The African Union’s Continental Best Teacher award was introduced in 2019 to appreciate exceptional educators but also promotes educational excellence across Africa. The awards ceremony is held on World Teachers Day on October 5 each year.
By BNN