Tears, Tributes and Thanksgiving as Kamariny Primary and Senior School Principal Thomas Oseko Retires After 39 Years of Dedicated Service
The colorful retirement celebration brought together teachers, learners, alumni, parents, church leaders, education stakeholders, family members and friends who gathered to honor a man whose leadership, commitment and passion for education have shaped the lives of thousands of learners over nearly four decades.
The event was marked by songs, prayers, speeches and the presentation of gifts, reflecting the immense respect and admiration Mr. Oseko earned throughout his teaching career. Speakers described him as a humble leader, mentor and role model who dedicated his life to nurturing young minds and instilling values of discipline, integrity and academic excellence.
Among those who paid glowing tribute was award-winning teacher and Kamariny Primary and Senior School Headteacher, Shokwei V. Barsulai, who thanked everyone who contributed to making the retirement celebration a memorable occasion.
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"A befitting send-off for a remarkable teacher and leader, Mr. Oseko. To everyone who made this celebration a success, thank you for your love, support and generosity. From the Blue Maroon Eagles, God bless you all. From school, to church, to home, it has truly been a beautiful journey of honor and gratitude," said Barsulai.
Barsulai said the ceremony was not simply marking the end of a career but celebrating a life devoted to service, leadership and the transformation of countless young people through education.
Throughout the event, colleagues recounted Mr. Oseko's unwavering commitment to ensuring every learner had an opportunity to succeed regardless of their background. They praised his calm leadership style, dedication to staff development and determination to maintain high academic and moral standards within the institution.
Parents also expressed appreciation for the retiring principal, saying he had played a significant role in strengthening the relationship between the school and the community while creating a learning environment where learners could thrive both academically and socially.
An Emotional Farewell
Speaking during the ceremony, an emotional Mr. Thomas Oseko thanked God for guiding him throughout his teaching journey and expressed profound appreciation to everyone who had supported him over the years.
"Today, my heart is filled with gratitude. I thank the Almighty God for granting me the opportunity, wisdom and strength to serve for 39 years. Looking back, I can only say that God has been faithful every step of the way."
Mr. Oseko said teaching had never been just a profession but a lifelong calling that gave him the privilege of shaping future generations.
"For me, education has always been about transforming lives. Every child who walked through our school gate came with a dream, and it was our responsibility as teachers to nurture that dream. Seeing our learners succeed has been the greatest reward of my career."
Reflecting on nearly four decades in the classroom and school leadership, the retiring principal said he had witnessed significant changes in Kenya's education system but remained convinced that the role of teachers extends far beyond academics.
"The curriculum may change, technology may evolve, but one thing remains constant—the responsibility of a teacher to inspire, guide and mentor learners. Education is about building character, values and responsible citizens."
He thanked the Board of Management, fellow teachers, non-teaching staff and parents for working together to make Kariny Primary and Senior School a center of excellence.
"No leader succeeds alone. Whatever we have achieved has been through teamwork, sacrifice and commitment from teachers, parents, church leaders and the entire school community. I sincerely thank every one of you."
Message to Teachers and Learners
Mr. Oseko urged teachers to continue embracing their profession with passion despite the challenges facing the education sector.
"To my fellow teachers, never lose sight of why you joined this noble profession. Continue serving with love, patience and integrity because the impact of a teacher lasts for generations. The seeds you plant today will continue bearing fruit long after you have left the classroom."
He also challenged learners to remain disciplined and focused on their education.
"Education is the greatest gift you can give yourselves. Respect your teachers, obey your parents, work hard and never allow challenges to stop you from pursuing your dreams. Success belongs to those who remain committed and disciplined."
The retiring principal further encouraged young people to embrace honesty, humility and faith in God as they pursue their ambitions.
"Always remember that success is not measured only by academic certificates but also by the values you uphold. Be honest, kind, hardworking and always trust in God."
A Legacy That Will Endure
As the ceremony drew to a close, Mr. Oseko expressed his appreciation to everyone who organized the retirement celebration, describing it as one of the most memorable days of his life.
"I am deeply humbled by the love that has been shown to me today. I never imagined such a wonderful celebration. Thank you to my family, colleagues, learners, alumni, church members, parents and friends for standing with me throughout this incredible journey. Though I retire from active service, I will always remain a teacher at heart."
He added that retirement marks the beginning of a new chapter rather than the end of his service to society.
"Retirement is not the end—it is simply the beginning of another opportunity to continue serving the community in different ways. I look forward to spending more time with my family, mentoring young people and giving back whenever I can."
The celebration ended with prayers, music, entertainment and the presentation of gifts as colleagues and friends wished the veteran educator well in his retirement.
After 39 years of faithful service, Mr. Thomas Oseko leaves behind more than school buildings and academic records. He leaves a lasting legacy of integrity, mentorship, servant leadership and an unwavering belief that education has the power to transform lives—a legacy that will continue inspiring generations of learners and educators for years to come.
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