The Kenya Primary Schools Headteachers Association (KEPSHA) has ushered in a new era with the swearing-in of Ali Fuad as acting national chairperson on Saturday.
The ceremony, held at KEPSHA’s headquarters in Nairobi, follows the death of Johnson Matheka Nzioka, who led the organisation for nearly four years until a fatal car crash on 16 February claimed his life.
Fuad, previously Nzioka’s deputy, takes the helm at a pivotal moment for Kenya’s education system, as the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) continues to reshape primary schooling.
In his first address, he pledged to build on his predecessor’s legacy while tackling pressing challenges facing headteachers and learners alike.
“KEPSHA will remain a strong voice for the effective rollout of the CBC,” Fuad said. “We need proper training for teachers, better resources for schools, and policies that put our learners first.”
The CBC, introduced to replace the decades-old 8-4-4 system, emphasises practical skills over rote learning—a shift Nzioka passionately championed before his death.
Fuad also highlighted climate action as a priority, urging schools to lead by example. “Our institutions must teach environmental awareness and adopt practices like tree planting, waste management, and clean energy,” he said. “This is about shaping a sustainable future for our children.”
Nzioka, laid to rest on Friday in Machakos County, was remembered as a towering figure in education. His death in a collision on Mombasa Road near Athi River shocked the sector, with tributes pouring in for his role in steering CBC implementation. “He was a visionary,” Fuad said, echoing sentiments from educators nationwide. “His legacy will drive us to work harder.”
The transition comes as Kenya’s primary schools adapt to hosting Junior Secondary School (JSS) grades under the CBC framework, placing headteachers at the heart of a broader administrative overhaul. Fuad vowed to advocate for improved welfare for school heads, many of whom face stretched resources and increased responsibilities.
Nzioka’s tenure, which began in March 2021, was marked by efforts to bridge gaps in CBC adoption and support headteachers through a period of upheaval, including the aftermath of Covid-19 disruptions. His sudden passing has left big shoes to fill, but Fuad’s early remarks suggest a focus on continuity and ambition.
