Celebrated educator and sports administrator Mwalimu Paul Agali Otula, who passed away on May 1 from pneumonia, was laid to rest on May 23 in a ceremony filled with joy and tributes, as many hailed him as a towering figure in education and a passionate sports enthusiast.
Otula, widely known for his transformative leadership in Kenya’s secondary education sector, leaves behind an unmatched legacy of academic excellence, youth mentorship, and sports development. His storied career saw him rise through the ranks, from Head of Department at Mangu High School in the early 1990s to Chief Principal of Maseno School and Sunshine Secondary School, where he pioneered academic programmes and propelled students to global success.
He was best known for driving school transition rates to over 95 percent, mentoring thousands of students into top universities worldwide, and integrating innovative programs such as Aviation Technology into high school curricula.
“Mwalimu Otula was a visionary; he saw potential where others saw challenges, and he had a gift for turning ideas into reality,” said a former colleague.
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A distinguished alumnus of Kenyatta University and the University of Liverpool, Otula’s educational philosophy blended academic rigour with holistic development. His dedication extended beyond the classroom into sports, where he served as Chairman of the Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) and an Executive Member of the National Olympic Committee (NOCK). He coached Kenya’s U-18 Boys’ Basketball Team to continental glory in Durban, South Africa, in 2003. He led numerous school teams to victory, earning accolades as one of the nation’s top basketball coaches.
In recognition of his contributions, he was honoured with the Head of State Commendation (HSC) (2005) and the Order of the Grand Warrior (OGW) (2020) and was voted Kenya’s Principal of the Year in 2008. He is also the published author of two influential texts on school leadership and administration.
Outside the public eye, Otula was a devoted family man. His wife, Hellen, described him as a selfless provider, stylish dresser, and pillar of strength. Together, they nurtured a family steeped in love and unity, sharing a life defined by purpose and tradition.
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Otula’s death came as a shock to many, despite a history of health complications. He remained private about his condition, embodying resilience until his final day. His daughter Rachael was by his side, as she had been throughout his illness.
As tributes continue to pour in from former students, educators, athletes, and national leaders, the country remembers Mwalimu Paul Otula as more than a teacher or coach; he was a national treasure whose legacy will inspire generations to come.
By Cornelius Korir
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