Kipchumba Korir Declares Candidacy for KUPPET Nandi Vice Chair, Promises Reforms and Inclusive Leadership

By Wasike Elvis 

A seasoned educator, youth mentor, and passionate advocate for teacher welfare, Kipchumba Korir has officially entered the race for Vice Chair of the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET), Nandi Branch. His bid, he says, is rooted in a desire to bring a more inclusive, transparent, and action-oriented leadership model to the union.

Korir, who teaches at Kapsabet Boys High School, is widely known in educational circles not only for his work in the classroom but also for his leadership in mentorship and counselling initiatives. He currently serves as the Founder and Director of Globalink Mentors Association, a mentorship-focused non-governmental organization with operations on four continents.

In an exclusive interview, Korir shared his motivations, vision, and priorities for the position he is seeking to fill.

> “I am running not for prestige, but to be a real voice for the teachers of Nandi,” he said. “We need leaders who don’t just speak from offices but walk alongside educators in every part of the county.”

Grounded in Experience

Korir brings with him a strong background in teaching and leadership. As a County Trainer of Trainers (TOT), a counsellor, and an author, he has worked with both students and fellow educators across Nandi. His experience gives him a unique perspective on the current gaps in representation and service delivery within the union.

> “I’ve mentored learners, guided peers through personal and professional challenges, and coordinated teacher development workshops. I know where the real pain points are.”

He adds that leadership, to him, is about consistency, humility, and direct service. “To lead effectively, you must understand the heartbeat of the profession,” Korir emphasized.

A Global Mindset, a Local Mission

Beyond his local influence, Korir is a recognized figure in global education mentorship through his NGO, Globalink Mentors Association. What began as a small student support initiative has grown into a multinational mentorship platform supporting young people in Africa, Europe, Asia, and North America.

> “There’s a real gap between what students learn in class and what they face in the job market. We started Globalink to help bridge that gap,” he explained.

Despite its global reach, Korir insists his heart is firmly rooted in his local community. He says the lessons he’s learned from working across borders have made him even more determined to improve the conditions for teachers at home.

Tackling Real Challenges for Teachers

Korir says the biggest issues facing teachers in Nandi today include delayed promotions, inadequate professional development, poor working conditions in some schools, and a lack of meaningful consultation from the union leadership.

 “Many teachers feel like they are out of the conversation, yet they are the ones holding the education system together. That disconnect must be addressed,” he said.

His plan includes pressing for policy changes and pushing for quicker processing of teacher promotions, improved resources in remote schools, and robust mental health support systems for educators.

A Vision for Change

Korir’s manifesto for the KUPPET Nandi Vice Chair seat includes four core pillars:

1. Transparent and Accountable Leadership

> “Union leaders must be answerable to members. We need to rebuild trust by showing integrity in how we make decisions.”

2. Advocacy for Teacher Welfare

 “Teachers deserve timely promotions, fair transfers, and dignified working conditions.”

3. Mentorship and Empowerment Programs

 “I plan to expand structured mentorship opportunities, including professional upskilling and mental wellness support.”

4. Strengthened Engagement with Stakeholders

> “We need to engage constructively with government and private sector players to influence education policy in favor of teachers.”

A Hands-On Leadership Style

If elected, Korir promises a grassroots-driven approach to leadership. He plans to establish regular school visits, create open forums for teacher feedback, and launch a digital platform for members to voice concerns and receive updates.

> “Leadership must be visible. Teachers must feel and see their union working beside them—not above or away from them,” he said.

Call to Action

With the KUPPET elections on the horizon, Korir is calling on teachers across Nandi County to vote not based on promises, but on vision and a record of service.

 “This election is a turning point. Let’s reclaim our voice and shape the future of our union. I humbly ask for your support to bring inclusive and effective leadership to KUPPET Nandi.”

He concludes with a powerful message that has become something of a slogan in his campaign:

> “When teachers are empowered, the nation thrives.”

 About Kipchumba Korir:

Profession: Teacher, Kapsabet Boys High School

Roles: Counselor, Author, County Trainer of Trainers (TOT)

Founder: Globalink Mentors Association

Vision: Transparent leadership, teacher empowerment, mentorship, and policy advocacy

KUPPET elections for the Nandi branch are expected later this year. If Korir’s campaign gains the support he seeks, the teachers of Nandi may be on the cusp of a new chapter in union leadership.