Peter Tabichi in 2019

Published by on December 17, 2019

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Some months ago, few Kenyans knew the name of the excellent Franciscan friar inspiring his students. This was before he had superheroes presenting him with awards, and before his name became synonymous with the Global Teacher Prize. Peter Tabichi, though largely unknown, was still the “World’s Best Teacher” at Pwani Village, Nakuru.

As a young man, Peter became passionate about teaching through observing his father–a retired teacher–and his uncles, who were also teachers. His passion turned to reality when he began his career as a teacher at Nyasabakwa Secondary School in Nyamira before venturing on to Egerton University. But the needs of Keriko Mixed Day Secondary School seemed to beckon him closer. He quit his job at Egerton and applied himself as a math and physics teacher at Keriko. He founded the school’s Talent Nurturing Club and expanded the existing Science Club. Enrollment soared and disciplinary cases plummeted.

At a glance, those that knew Brother Tabichi knew he would give 80 percent of his earnings to his community. Were his good deeds to end here, they would be sufficient, but Teacher Tabichi has shown that he is also a man that invests in his students. When he isn’t giving one-on-one tutoring in the subjects of Math and Science, he visits the homes of his pupils. As a teacher, as well as a person who lost his mother at a young age, Tabichi understands that the children he engages with are multi-dimensional beings; their home life and challenges have an effect on their education and journeys of innovation. He also works together with the community at large, helping them grow crops to prevent if not avoid famine.

Tabichi’s great mind and passion have been instilled in his students who show the mark of his cultivation. His innovative pupils draw energy from plants and design tools that give a functional sight to the deaf-blind. Already, some have received awards for scientific innovation, including an award from the Royal Society of Chemistry. They have shone at home through participating in the Kenya Science and Engineering Fair 2018 and continue to soar abroad as they prepare to attend the finals of the INTEL International Science and Engineering Fair 2019. Nothing but confidence flows from their teacher who says, “Africa will produce scientists, engineers, entrepreneurs whose names will be one day famous in every corner of the world. And girls will be a huge part of this story.”

When Peter Tabichi was awarded the Global Teacher Prize, presented to him by Hugh Jackman, a world-renown actor best known for his role as Marvel’s Wolverine, praise flowed in from all quarters. An endorsement from President Uhuru Kenyatta was among them: “You are a shining example of what the human spirit can achieve. Not just for Kenya. Not just for Africa. But for the world,” said the president. And indeed, Tabichi is. His motivation is to see his learners grow in knowledge, skill, and confidence – unlocking their potential “in the most exciting manner.” His words of advice? “You have to do more, talk less, and understand the students better, and let them have a friend in you.”