The 2019 competition for the ‘Best Teacher’ is over and the honorable title, along with $1 million, has been awarded to a selfless teacher from a remote African village.
The charity foundation that hands over a Global Teacher Prize to one outstanding educator on a yearly basis was founded in 2015 by Sunny Varkey and his patron Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
In the year 2019, over 10,000 teachers from 179 countries have applied to participate in the competition and have a chance at taking home $1 million.
While there were plenty of worthy candidates from countries such as the Netherlands, the US, Argentina, Japan, Australia, and Brazil, one Kenyan teacher stood out from the crowd.
Peter Tabichi is a Franciscan friar and a science teacher who has dedicated his life and all of his resources to providing better education to children in his hometown.
As Mr. Tabichi explained, his school has one teacher, one computer, and 58 students of which most are extremely poor or orphans. Nevertheless, his pupils boast of countless awards they have received in national competitions.
To make up for the financial lack of his school and the kids, Tabichi donates 80% of his earnings on improving the establishment and purchasing school supplies for his students.
“This win does not belong to me: it demonstrates the achievements of young minds. I am here only thanks to my students’ achievements. A victory gives them a chance. It means that there are no borders for them,” the friar said upon receiving the award.
As Tabichi explained, all of his students are allowed to be creative and showcase their work in creative clubs. He has also opened a Peace Club that encourages students of different religions and nationalities to work together in harmony.
“Seeing my learners grow in knowledge, skills, and confidence is my greatest joy in teaching! When they become resilient, creative, and productive in the society, I get a lot of satisfaction for I act as their greatest destiny enabler and key that unlocks their potential in the most exciting manner,” he added.
When asked about how he’s going to spend the $1 million he’s going to receive over the period of ten years, the selfless teacher had no problems giving a straight answer.
As Tabichi said, he’s going to invest in equipment for the science lab, science class, and projects that will help improve the conditions of his local community.
What are your thoughts on this story? Let us know in the comments and don’t forget to SHARE this post with your family and friends and follow us on Facebook for more news and stories!
Replaced!