West Pokot County teachers have been urged to embrace their profession with passion, discipline and dedication in order to positively shape the lives of learners and strengthen the education sector.
Speaking during a meeting with teachers at Talau School in West Pokot County, Siyoi Zone Curriculum Support Officer (CSO) Joseph Soita Maruti praised the institution’s teachers for their commitment, professionalism and teamwork despite the challenges facing the education sector.
Maruti said he was impressed by the seriousness with which teachers at the school execute their duties, noting that their dedication had contributed significantly to the institution’s positive progress.
He described teaching as a noble calling that demands sacrifice, patience, commitment and genuine concern for learners. According to him, the success of any school largely depends on the quality, attitude and professionalism of its teachers.
“The future of society is shaped in classrooms. Teachers therefore carry a huge responsibility not only to impart academic knowledge but also to guide learners morally and socially,” he said.
The CSO encouraged teachers to perform their duties wholeheartedly, emphasizing that effective teaching requires more than routine classroom attendance. He observed that meaningful learning can only take place when teachers prepare adequately, remain emotionally committed and willingly sacrifice for the success of their learners.
Maruti warned against laziness and working without passion, saying such attitudes negatively affect learner performance and the overall learning environment. He added that teachers who genuinely love their profession inspire confidence, discipline and hard work among learners.
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He further acknowledged the sacrifices teachers make daily, often under difficult working conditions and with limited recognition from society. Many teachers, he noted, spend extra hours preparing lessons, marking assignments and counselling learners beyond their official responsibilities.
Despite these challenges, he encouraged teachers not to lose hope, reminding them that their contribution extends far beyond the classroom.
“Many successful professionals and leaders in society today are products of committed teachers who guided them during their formative years,” he said.
Maruti further challenged educators to embrace responsibility willingly rather than waiting to be pushed by administrators or education officers. He warned that professionalism cannot thrive where teachers only act under pressure or supervision.
According to him, self-driven teachers become role models to both learners and fellow educators and help create a culture of excellence within schools.
On professional development, the CSO encouraged teachers to actively participate in the TIMEC mentorship programme, which supports young teachers by exposing them to effective teaching practices and professional ethics.
He said mentorship remains one of the strongest tools for improving the quality of education, especially for newly recruited teachers who require guidance in lesson preparation, classroom management, learner engagement and assessment methods.
Maruti commended senior teachers who take time to mentor younger colleagues, saying such cooperation strengthens institutions and enhances professionalism within the education sector.
He also advised teachers to exercise financial discipline and avoid destructive habits such as gambling and irresponsible borrowing. According to him, betting has ruined the lives of many professionals by causing financial instability, stress and family problems.
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Teachers, he said, should focus on proper financial planning and avoid taking loans without careful consideration, warning that financial pressure can easily affect work performance and personal wellbeing.
On social conduct, Maruti cautioned teachers against irresponsible alcohol consumption, saying educators occupy respected positions in society and should uphold integrity both inside and outside the classroom.
He warned that excessive drinking often leads to absenteeism, indiscipline and damaged careers, while also tarnishing the image of the teaching profession.
The CSO further emphasized the importance of proper lesson planning before entering class. He noted that adequate preparation enables teachers to manage time effectively, organize learning materials and deliver lessons confidently.
“A well-prepared teacher earns the respect and confidence of learners and achieves lesson objectives more effectively,” he said.
Maruti concluded by urging teachers at Talau School to continue maintaining high standards of professionalism, teamwork and commitment in order to transform the lives of learners through quality education.
His remarks underscored the vital role teachers play in shaping individuals, communities and the nation through dedication, discipline and moral responsibility.
By Hillary Muhalya
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