There was excitement and surprise at Mokorogoinwa Secondary School when Kisii County nominated Senator Essy Okenyuri showed up for their Education and Prize-Giving Day dressed in full school uniform.
The senator joined parents, teachers, and students in the celebrations, commending the efforts of educators and donating over 300 books to the school’s library through her Nyaituga Foundation.
“I am the product of a teacher, and I came here with something small from my foundation to give back to society in my small way,” she said.
Senator Okenyuri praised the residents of Nyaribari Masaba for their commitment to education despite prevailing economic hardships. She attributed the region’s strong academic culture to the inspiration of distinguished scholars such as Prof. Sam Ongeri and former Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu, who have long championed the value of education in the community.
While acknowledging the many challenges teachers face, she urged them to remain loyal to the government, which she noted is their employer. She also assured educators of her continued advocacy in Parliament.
“I think you witnessed my contribution in the Senate agitating for the permanent and pensionable employment of Junior Secondary School teachers, and I will continue that way,” she said.
Senator Okenyuri went further to address the role of families in ensuring students’ well-being. She encouraged parents, especially fathers, to play active roles in their households to create a stable environment for learning.
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“The Bible calls our fathers the heads of the family, so you men wake up and take your right positions to be models in your families,” she urged.
“Show unconditional love to the mothers of your children and the whole family to avoid any mental disturbances,” she added.
In a heartfelt moment, the senator—dressed in her schoolgirl uniform—joined the girls in singing the motivational anthem “Mbele Twaenda” (We Press Forward), dancing and cheering alongside the students.
She took the opportunity to counsel the girls on discipline and making wise choices, particularly cautioning them against early relationships.
“Avoid premarital sex because it thwarts your education,” she advised.
Senator’s bold appearance and inspiring message left a lasting impression on the school community, blending symbolism with substance to promote education, family values, and youth empowerment.
By Enock Okong’o.
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