Teachers from across Rarieda Sub-County in Siaya County have come together to give the late Maurice Ambiro Okelo, the Head of Institution (HOI) at Wera Special Needs Education (SNE) School, a dignified send-off, demonstrating solidarity with his bereaved family.
Okelo, who hailed from the Nyarongi area of Migori County, was laid to rest on October 15, 2026, following a fundraising drive organised by teachers in Rarieda to help meet burial expenses.
The teachers not only contributed money but also travelled in large numbers to support the family, with two buses carrying mourners from Mahaya Compassion Academy and Ruma, while others used private vehicles.
The funeral brought together teachers and education representatives from all six zones in Rarieda, which has 123 schools, highlighting the unity among educators in the sub-county.
Educators pay tribute to dedicated school head
Speaking during the funeral, Sister Hellen Pius of Madiany paid tribute to Okelo, praising his commitment to working with learners with special needs.
She reflected on the cycle of life, saying people are born, get an opportunity to work and eventually return to God.
“May God rest his soul in eternal peace,” she said.
Mr Oti Odera, a member of the Bondo, Rarieda and Usigu Special Needs Education Welfare (BORAU SNE Welfare), described Okelo’s death as a painful loss to the organisation.
“We have lost a very active member of BORAU SNE Welfare. We had 90 subscribing members, but now we are remaining 89. We are very sad to have lost such a good member,” Odera said.
Despite being a Catholic, Okelo was also known for fellowshipping with the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK), where he participated in worship, sang hymns and made contributions to church activities.
The Nyilima Zone team, led by Mr Ndiege, also paid tribute to the deceased, recognising his efforts in building his home and raising his family. Mourners were told that one of his sons aspires to become a Catholic priest.
Welfare groups pledge continued support for family
During the funeral, Executive Secretary Mr Michael Owade thanked Rarieda teachers and heads of institutions for standing with the family during the difficult period.
He also commended Wera Special Needs Education School staff, including those working in the special unit, for maintaining a peaceful working environment.
Owade said the support extended by teachers had brought relief to the bereaved family and urged educators to join welfare groups, noting that such organisations provide crucial assistance to members during difficult times.
He further announced that KEPSHA welfare would use the remaining funds to pay school fees for Okelo's children, offering continued support to the family beyond the burial.
Education officials recognise Okelo's contribution
The Ministry of Education also acknowledged Okelo's contribution to the education sector, particularly his timely submission of data.
Former Teachers Service Commission (TSC) Sub-County Director Mr Frederick Mukabane sent his condolences to the family, while Ministry of Education Sub-County Director Mr Stenly Shitanda also praised his work ethic.
The presence of education officials who travelled and spent the night at the funeral was also highlighted as a gesture of solidarity with the family.
The gathering ended with renewed calls for unity and mutual support among teachers, with the loss of Okelo serving as a reminder of the importance of welfare associations in supporting educators and their families during times of grief.
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