Kenyan teacher who donated 80% of his salary gets an even bigger surprise coming his way — from the universe

In 2019, Peter Tabichi, a science teacher from Pwani Village in Kenya’s Rift Valley, received international recognition after winning the Varkey Foundation Global Teacher Prize. Selected from a pool of over 10,000 nominees across 179 countries, Tabichi stood out not only for his impact in the classroom but for the fact that he routinely gave away 80 percent of his salary to help support his students and community.

"I can’t believe it. I feel so happy to be among the best teachers in the world," Tabichi said after the announcement. He accepted the prize in Dubai during a ceremony hosted by Hugh Jackman, standing on a global stage far from the modest classrooms of Keriko Mixed Day Secondary School, where he taught math and physics. His school lacked even the most basic infrastructure, with no reliable internet, no lab, no library, and classes so overcrowded that 70 or 80 students shared space meant for half that number, reported CNN. Unfortunately, that's the case for many schools around the world. According to UNESCO Institute for Statistics data, only 69 % of primary schools worldwide have electricity, dropping to just 35 % in sub‑Saharan Africa.

Further, only 46 % of primary schools globally have internet access, and rates plummet to about 16 % in the least-developed countries. Despite the situation, Tabichi’s work led to remarkable outcomes. He encouraged students to stay in school, helped orphans and children from single-parent households find academic direction, and elevated the school’s standing in science competitions. Under his mentorship, his students developed a device to help blind and deaf individuals measure objects. They won in the public schools category at Kenya’s national science fair, received an award from the Royal Society of Chemistry, and qualified for the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair in the United States. As a Franciscan Brother, Tabichi said his personal needs, food, clothing, and shelter were met.

"I’m going to give [the prize money] back to the society. It is a great moment that the society is going to benefit," he told CGTN America. Tabichi had long been investing in sustainable agricultural projects and youth peace initiatives. At school, he introduced a Talent Nurturing Club and a Peace Club to help integrate students from seven different tribes. He also encouraged worship practices that respected the diverse religious backgrounds of students. "Seeing my learners grow in knowledge, skills, and confidence is my greatest joy in teaching. When they become resilient, creative, and productive in 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," Tabichi said.

His story sent a broader message about educational equity and the power of belief. "Africa’s young people will no longer be held back by low expectations. Africa will produce scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs, whose names will be, one day, famous in every corner of the world. And girls will be a huge part of this story," Tabichi said in his acceptance speech. Tabichi’s win was widely celebrated, including by Kenya’s President Uhuru Kenyatta, who called him "a shining example of what the human spirit can achieve—not just for Kenya, not just for Africa, but for the world." "It’s morning in Africa. The skies are clear. The day is young, and there is a blank page waiting to be written. This is Africa’s time," Tabichi said.