KISII, Kenya – Nominated Senator Esther Okenyuri (Nyaituga) has called upon all elected Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) officials to work diligently and proactively in achieving their mandate.
While taking to her official social media platforms, Senator Okenyuri took time to congratulate all teachers who have so far been elected as KNUT officials in various capacities.
“Having been trusted by teachers, I call on the elected officials to be firm and steadfast as they embark on discharging their mandate in their respective positions,” said the youthful senator.
Senator Okenyuri, who has publicly demonstrated her passion for education, told the new office bearers to remember that they act as trustees and their primary role is to advance teachers’ interests.
“The quest for union leadership calls for intensive persuasion of the teachers if they are to trust one with their vote. The beauty of the elections is that the spirit of democracy reigned, and teachers had the discretion to choose leaders of their choice peacefully and without influence from any quarters,” she explained
Okenyuri, the Vice Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Trade, Industrialisation and Tourism, observed that there was a need for their effectiveness to be measured by the vigour with which they advance teachers’ interests.
“May their leadership bring positive change, stronger advocacy and a lasting impact to the Kenya National Union of Teachers and the teaching fraternity. I wish all elected officials well, and I look forward to collaborating with them on matters of education and every aspect related to it,” added Okenyuri, who also sits on the Senate Finance and Budget and Powers and Privileges Committees.
Why the KNUT nationwide elections are being held
The elections are being held following a schedule mandated by the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection.
According to the election schedule, branch elections are to be held between January 5, 2026, and March 31, 2026.
The national elections are scheduled for April 1, 2026, to June 30, 2026.
The final deadline will see all trade union elections, including for umbrella bodies like COTU and TUC, and must be completed by August 30, 2026.
This comes even as Senator Okenyuri lauded the 2025 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) candidates on their impressive performance in their tests.
“Your discipline, resilience and countless hours of perseverance and hard work have borne fruit, and this milestone is a proud moment for you and your families,” said the legislator.
For those who slightly missed the entry grade for university, Senator Okenyuri encouraged them not to give up in life, as there are many opportunities ahead of them.
“Let one exam not define your worth, your intelligence or your future. Do consider joining technical training colleges and vocational training centres for technical skills that will enable you to navigate the technical world with ease,” she added.
In her own words, the Senator told the candidates, “Keep going, stay focused and remember that your journey is still unfolding. I wish you all the very best in your pursuit of greatness.”
What did Senator Okenyuri tell the school-going students?
In her New Year message, the Senator reminded students that they were now embarking on a new chapter as they resumed their studies in 2026.
“Dear students, you are now transitioning from rest, celebration and reflection to discipline, intensity, learning and purpose. I fully appreciate the effort it takes to return to the classroom and do unequivocally commend each of you for choosing the journey of education,” said Senator Okenyuri.
As they settle back in classrooms, Senator Okenyuri urged them to remember what took them there in the first place.
“You should repay the sacrifice made on your behalf by working hard and shaping the future you so desire. The power to succeed lies within you. Believe in yourself and make every opportunity count.”
She hinted at plans by her Essy Okenyuri Nyaituga Foundation, through the Mchakato wa Usomi program, to visit various learning institutions across the country in the coming days.
“We might make a surprise visit to your various institutions this year. I look forward to interacting with you and together advancing the reading culture in the broader objective of enhancing critical thinking. Adios and safe travels on your way back to school,” said the Senator.
Discussion about this post