A Kenyan teacher, O'kubasu Malik, had high hopes of being recognized on World Teachers' Day 2026 for his dedication to supporting vulnerable learners in his community. He had been nominated for the WTDA Inclusive Educator Award and had even prepared a suit for the celebrations. However, his journey came to an end at the regional level, leaving him questioning whether the judging process fully captured the impact of his work at the grassroots.
Malik had built classrooms, helped fight jiggers, provided sanitary towels, and improved sanitation in his community. He represented his school through the sub-county and county stages before reaching the regional level. Despite his efforts, he was not selected as a winner, a decision he has accepted despite some reservations about the judging process.
The teacher revealed that he arrived at the regional interview venue at 10 am but was interviewed at around 8 pm. He attributed this to the other three nominees having travelled from distant work stations, and it being late in the day. Malik felt that due to the rush, he was not given enough time to explain his work in promoting inclusive education.
In a heartfelt post titled "The Suit That Never Walked the Stage", Malik apologized to the people who had supported and financed his community initiative. He expressed his disappointment but also congratulated the teachers who emerged victorious. Malik emphasized that losing the award did not mean losing the purpose behind his work.
Malik's initiative, Love Stories, had helped restore dignity and provide long-term solutions to vulnerable learners. He mentioned that they had helped build classrooms, provide water, keep girls in school, cushion learners from period poverty, and provide clothing and food. Malik reiterated that this was the ultimate award, and he would continue with his mission.
Despite his disappointment, Malik expressed his willingness to learn from the regional winners. He hopes to improve his work and continue making a positive impact in his community. Malik's story has touched many, and he has become an inspiration to others.
Malik has been making headlines for his charitable work, especially after helping a poor student who had never been to Kakamega town. He took the student to town, treated him, and bought him uniforms and shoes. This act of kindness touched many, and he has been urged to continue helping those in need.
Key points
- O'kubasu Malik, a Kenyan teacher, was nominated for the WTDA Inclusive Educator Award but missed out on the award at the regional level.
- Malik had made significant contributions to his community, including building classrooms and providing sanitary towels to vulnerable learners.
- Despite his disappointment, Malik has accepted the outcome and vowed to continue his mission of supporting vulnerable learners.
