A sombre mood has engulfed the education fraternity and residents of Bomet following the death of Junior Secondary School (JSS) teacher Caleb Langat, whose inspiring yet painful journey had touched many people across the country.
Caleb passed away while undergoing treatment after a long battle with illness, bringing to an end a struggle that had attracted support from leaders, colleagues, and well-wishers.
His death comes barely weeks after he secured employment with the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), a breakthrough that had renewed hope for him and his family.
Last month, Bomet Senator Hillary Sigei intervened and helped secure Caleb a teaching position after his story emerged publicly, highlighting the challenges he was facing while battling a serious medical condition.
The young teacher was expected to receive his first salary this month before his untimely death.
Caleb’s condition had attracted nationwide attention after doctors reportedly recommended specialised medication worth about Sh9 million in India, prompting appeals for financial assistance from members of the public and leaders.
Despite his deteriorating health, friends and colleagues described Caleb as a determined and passionate teacher who remained hopeful about returning to normal life and serving learners after finally securing employment.
Recently, teachers from different schools across Bomet have started mobilising financial support through staffroom fund drives to support his treatment.
His death has devastated family members, fellow teachers, and residents who had followed his journey with hope and prayers.
Leaders and members of the teaching fraternity mourned him as a resilient young teacher whose dream of serving under permanent employment was cut short just as it was beginning to materialise.
READ ALSO: Tragedy as JSS teacher dies in house fire sparked by suspected gas explosion in Nakuru
Messages of condolence continued to pour in from colleagues, friends, and Kenyans online, many describing his death as heartbreaking given the struggles he endured before finally securing employment.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be communicated by the family later.
By Philip Koech
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
