Kajiado Governor Joseph ole Lenku has expressed deep sorrow following the passing of Mzee Samuel Arap Cheruiyot, describing him as a dedicated educationist, respected civil servant and a pioneer whose influence shaped generations of learners and educators.
In his condolence message, the governor said he received the news of Mzee Cheruiyot’s demise with profound shock, noting that his death is not only a loss to his family but also to the wider education fraternity and the community of Kipchegego in Bomet County, where he was fondly known as “Mwalimu.”
Mzee Cheruiyot, who is the father to the governor’s Personal Assistant, Michael Lang’at, is being remembered for his long and distinguished service in the education sector.
His career journey stands as a testament to commitment, discipline and academic excellence, having served in various leadership capacities across different learning institutions.
According to the county boss, Mzee Cheruiyot will be remembered as one of the early beneficiaries and pioneers of the United States–Africa scholarship programme.
He pursued higher education in the United States in 1967 and completed his studies in 1971, an achievement that placed him among the early Kenyan scholars to gain international academic exposure during that era.
ALSO READ;
Storm ravages Majiwa Secondary School, leaves millions in damage
Upon his return to Kenya, Mzee Cheruiyot dedicated his life to teaching and administration, where he moulded hundreds of students in several secondary schools.
His leadership, mentorship and passion for education earned him respect among colleagues, students and the communities he served.
His exemplary service later saw him rise through the ranks within the ministry of education, where he served as secretary of education.
In this capacity, he contributed to policy development and the strengthening of Kenya’s education system during a period of significant growth and transformation.
Lenku noted that Mzee Cheruiyot’s legacy will continue to live on through the many professionals he mentored and the education structures he helped shape.
He described him as a humble servant of the people whose impact extended beyond classrooms into national development.
ALSO READ;
The role of early childhood stimulation on brain development and school readiness (0-8 years)
“He was not only an educationist but a mentor and a leader who believed in the power of education to transform lives,” the governor said.
The governor extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Mzee Cheruiyot, particularly his son Michael Lang’at, praying that God grants them strength, comfort, and peace during this difficult period of mourning.
He further encouraged the family and friends to take solace in the fact that Mzee Cheruiyot lived a fulfilled life marked by service, dedication and a lasting contribution to society.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in due course.
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
