Resilience, discipline, and humility define Dr. George Opiyo Nyangwe, the KESSHA Chair Nyanza Region, a man whose gentle smile and soft-spoken nature belie the fierce academic fire that has propelled him to the pinnacle of mathematical excellence.
Dr. Opiyo recently earned a Doctorate in Applied Mathematics from Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology, focusing on determining equations for wave propagation arising from the collapse of shafts in power transmission systems. His work, complex as it may sound, is grounded in a simple truth: understanding wave propagation in mechanical systems is key to predicting how components behave under stress or failure.
Mathematics, for Dr. Opiyo, has never been just a subject, it is a lifelong passion. From his formative years, he has pranced through numbers and equations, steadily chasing mastery over what many consider an intimidating field.
“Being a mathematician requires continuous practice and shunning laziness at all costs,” he says. He rejects the notion that mathematics is inherently difficult. “It is the easiest subject to learn and excel in, once you dedicate yourself to it,” he adds, urging aspiring students to embrace the discipline rather than fear it.
Born in Ramogi Village, Nyakach Sub-county, Dr. Opiyo’s journey began in humble surroundings. He attended local schools before moving to Ringa Boys High School in Homa Bay County for his ‘O’ levels and later Nyabondo High School for his ‘A’ levels.
From there, he pursued a Diploma in Education and eventually earned a Bachelor of Science in double mathematics at Moi University, Eldoret. Along the way, he taught in several schools while simultaneously advancing his education, a testament to his resilience and love for the subject.
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His love for mathematics, he says, was sparked at Ringa Boys High School by a remarkable teacher who applied simple, clear methods to a subject often dreaded by students. That inspiration, combined with an unwavering personal drive, has now extended to his family, where all his children excel in mathematics, a point of pride he notes with a quiet joy.
Today, Dr. Opiyo serves as the Chairperson of the Kenya Secondary School Heads Association (Kisumu County and Nyanza Region), balancing leadership, teaching, and academic research.
Despite his achievements, humility remains his hallmark. He speaks warmly of his supervisors, led by T.J. Aminer, acknowledging the guidance and encouragement they provided throughout his doctoral journey.
Looking forward, Dr. Opiyo aims to sharpen his report and thesis writing skills. Though cautious about publicly declaring ambitions for a professorship, his trajectory suggests that higher academic accolades are not far off.
For Dr. George Opiyo Nyangwe, mathematics is more than equations on paper, it is a testament to persistence, passion, and the pursuit of knowledge. And in a world where many shy away from the subject, he continues to light the path for future mathematicians.
By Fredrick Odiero
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