Hundreds of mourners including dons from various universities attended the burial mass of academician Dr. Peter Elung’ata Opakas at his residence in Kisoko, Nambale sub-county, Busia County on Saturday.
Dr. Opakas, born in 1952, died aged 71 following a tragic road accident in Busia Town on June 27, 2023.
Until his death, he was part of the part-time teaching faculty at the University of Eldoret and a council member at Taita Taveta University.
A Masters Degree holder in Education Administration from University of Leeds in United Kingdom and a Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD) holder in Environmental Studies at Moi University Eldoret, Dr. Opakas started his career as a graduate teacher where before rising to the position of District Education Officer.
The don began his tenure at Moi University as a Senior Administrative Officer, Recruitment and Training and was promoted to Principal Administrative Officer and later Deputy Chief Administrative Officer.
He moved to Kenya Methodist University where he served as Registrar in charge of Administration. He moved back to Moi University as Registrar, Planning and Development, where he served until his retirement on June 30, 2018.
Dr. Opakas was eulogized as an academician who believed that education is the foundation of making a difference in the society.
He mentored, taught many and sat in the boards of various schools in Busia County including St. Monica Chakol, St. Mary’s Amukura Girls, Fr Okodoi and St. Peter’s Khwilare Girls.
The late academician had been at the forefront in encouraging his children to study hard and pursue courses that would benefit them to achieve their cherished dreams.
His family members described him as a polished, well-educated man who disliked illiteracy and was proud of his Teso culture.
By Gilbert Ochieng
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