Excitement at Kajiado School as teacher revisits old institution he taught 70 years back

Kiserian Catholic Junior Seminary school yesterday burst into excitement and celebration after  a 92-year-old retired teacher, Gabriel Gaitho, made an impromptu visit to the institution, 70 years after he first taught there.

It is reported that Gaitho, a respected educationist, was among the teachers at the seminary in 1956 shortly after graduating as a P3 teacher from Kilimambogo Teachers College. At the time, the institution was known as Conception Immaculate Seminary, Kiserian.

“It was then called the Conception Immaculate Seminary, Kiserian,” the nonagenarian told students and staff as he reflected on his early teaching days, revealing that he taught intermediate classes (Standard 5 to 8) during his time at the institution.

Accompanying him during the historic visit were his children, including Dr. Vincent Gaitho, Chairman of the Mount Kenya University (MKU) Council and Pro-Chancellor. Also present were Mwalimu Eveline Wambui Kiarie, formerly a tutor at Machakos Teachers College; Father Francis Wairegi Gaitho of the Nairobi Archdiocese and Hellen Gichuru Gaitho.

Addressing the seminarians, Gaitho encouraged them to remain focused and open-minded about their future.

“Though you are studying in a Catholic seminary, the world is available for you, whether as religious leaders or in other careers that the world may offer,” he said.

He reminded them that pursuing a religious vocation does not limit one’s opportunities for further academic and professional growth.

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“The church and humanity require well-prepared individuals capable of offering transformation founded on morals, integrity and honesty,” he added, urging them to pursue higher education opportunities wherever possible.

He further invited the students to consider Mount Kenya University and other institutions of higher learning as they plan their future paths.

Welcoming the delegation, the Father Rector in Charge, Rev. Joseph Waratho, expressed joy at hosting a teacher who served the school seven decades ago.

“We are deeply honoured to receive someone who taught here 70 years ago. Our students and teachers have much to learn from his life, dedication and longevity in service,” said Rev. Waratho.

Gaitho also shared fascinating historical insights about the seminary’s origins. He explained that the institution was initially established at the present site of Kilimambogo Teachers College, making it a precursor to the college. It was later moved temporarily to Kabaa in Machakos County for two years before finally relocating to Kiserian in 1956.

In 1957, Gaitho returned to his home area in Gatundu North, where he established an intermediate class at Kamwangi Primary School. A year later, he upgraded his qualifications to Primary (P2) level at Kilimambogo Teachers College.

After completing his P2 training in 1959, he taught at Kiriko Intermediate School before being transferred to Mariaini (Mataara) Intermediate School in 1961. That same year, he was moved to head the girls’ intermediate school at Kiriko following unrest, taking up the role of headmaster.

Even while teaching, Gaitho continued advancing his education privately through Rapid Results College. In 1961, he sat and passed his Cambridge O’Levels, paving the way for his transition into secondary education.

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By 1966, he began teaching at Kiriko Secondary School. The following year, he upgraded to Secondary School (S1) status after attending a course at the Institute of Adult Studies in Nairobi, earning qualifications equivalent to GCE A-Level and University Entrance.

In 1968, he gained admission to the University of Nairobi, where he pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Education, specialising in History, Geography and Psychology.

After graduating, he returned to Kilimambogo Teachers College as a tutor and later rose to Deputy Principal. During his tenure, he earned a 10-month scholarship to Australia, where he studied comparative education at Sydney University.

Gaitho retired in 1992 after a distinguished career spanning primary schools, secondary schools and teacher training colleges.

Among his many former students are Prof. Simon Gicharu, Founder and Chairman of MKU, and Mwangi Mbothu, Chief Principal of Kianyaga High School.

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Speaking during the visit, Dr. Vincent Gaitho reflected on his father’s enduring influence on education and how it resonates with MKU’s mission.

“Mount Kenya University is a beneficiary of Mwalimu’s passion for education. We continue to invest heavily in teacher training and education programmes that serve the country and beyond,” he said.

He highlighted MKU’s Bachelor of Education programmes in Arts, Science, Primary Education and Special Needs Education, as well as Master of Education programmes in Educational Counselling Psychology, Educational Management and Administration and Special Needs Education.

“We also offer Diplomas in Early Childhood Studies and Special Needs Education, as well as a Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE). For tutors, we have the Teacher Professional Development programme accredited by the Teachers Service Commission. MKU provides flexible learning modes, including online and distance learning, making it accessible for working teachers,” Dr. Gaitho added.

As the visit concluded, it was clear that Gabriel Gaitho’s journey, from a young P3 teacher in 1956 to a respected educationist with an international academic footprint, continues to inspire generations. His return to Kiserian Catholic Junior Seminary was not just a nostalgic homecoming, but a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of dedicated teachers in shaping lives and institutions.

By Juma Ndigo and John Kamau