Francis Chemion, the Member of County Assembly (MCA) for Kaptama Ward in Bungoma County, has emerged as one of the most consistent voices for education in the region, drawing on an academic and professional journey that spans more than 30 years.
Chemion’s pursuit of excellence began at Gituamba PEFA before moving to Sikinwa Primary, where he topped the 1989 KCPE exams and served as a prefect. His stellar performance earned him admission to Manor House in 1990, later transferring to Saboti Secondary, where he again ranked best in class. He completed his secondary education at Kapsokwony Boys, serving as a prefect and attaining a C+ in the 1993 KCSE.
His passion for teaching led him to Thogoto Teachers Training College, where he excelled both academically and in sports, representing the institution nationally in volleyball and athletics. He began his teaching career at Kopsiro Primary, setting record performance levels in Mt. Elgon Sub-County while coaching athletics and ball games. His leadership qualities saw him rise through the ranks as senior teacher, deputy head, and eventually head teacher in various schools.
Determined to advance his education, Chemion enrolled at Kenyatta University, where he earned a Bachelor of Education (Arts) degree, graduating with Second Class Honours. He later pursued a Master’s in Educational Management and Policy Studies, equipping himself with the skills to influence education policy and administration.
In 2017, Chemion transitioned into politics, winning the MCA seat for Kaptama Ward. He has since served as Minority Leader and Chair of Committees, using his position to champion education initiatives. Through bursaries and scholarships, he has enabled countless students to pursue their academic dreams. “Through bursary and scholarship, we have assisted pay fees for many students,” he said.
His involvement in shaping education policy has been evident in active participation in Boards of Management (BOM) meetings, where he has pushed for reforms benefiting local schools. He has also spearheaded fundraising drives for needy students and consistently advocated for increased bursary allocations. “We have participated in fundraising for needy students and pushed for the enhanced bursary next financial year,” he noted.
Chemion’s commitment to infrastructure development is visible in the construction of more than 16 Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) centers and the modernization of Kiptiroko Polytechnic. A new polytechnic at Kapchebon is currently under construction, further expanding opportunities for vocational training.
Speaking to the youth, Chemion emphasized that “Education is an equalizer.” He pledged to continue advocating for increased staffing in schools, construction of additional learning blocks in ECDE centers and vocational training colleges, provision of more learning materials, and expansion of bursary coverage.
He also stressed the importance of collaboration between parents, students, and leaders in addressing educational challenges. “Large volume of needy students and parents are not ready to collaborate, we need to work together to create a brighter future for our youth,” he said.
Beyond politics, Chemion coordinates Kick Off International, a program that motivates and educates teachers, students, and parents on matters of education, fostering a culture of learning and growth across the community, with his initiatives continuing to transform lives in Bungoma, positioning him as a driving force for academic empowerment in the region.
By Kimtai Cherongis
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
