The 2019 Global $1 million Teacher Prize Winner, Peter Tabichi, met US President Donald Trump on Monday ahead of a scheduled address in the 74th session of United Nations General Assembly next week.
White House described Tabichi who beat nine other teachers shortlisted for the award in March as an inspiration to the entire world.
Press Secretary Stephanie Grisham lauded Tabichi’s commitment to helping the poor as commendable.
“His dedication, hard work, and belief in his student’s talent has led his poorly resourced school in Kenya to emerge victorious after taking on the country’s best schools in national science competitions. Peter, you inspire us all! Thank you for your commitment to your students,” she tweeted after the Monday meeting in the Oval Office.
A member of the Franciscans order of the Catholic, Tabichi gives 80 per cent of his salary towards charity particularly supporting needy students to pay their school fees.
Tabichi who is a Maths and Physics teacher was announced the winner on stage in Dubai on March 19 by movie star Hugh Jackman in the presence of Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
“From teaching in remote towns and villages to inner-city schools, they advocate for inclusivity and for child rights, integrate migrants into the classrooms, and nurture their students’ abilities and confidence using music, technology, robotics and science. Peter has dedicated his life to helping others,” the Varkey Foundation which gives the annual award said in March.
“He has changed the lives of his students in many ways, including the introduction of science clubs and the promotion of peace between different ethnic groups and religions.”
He has also helped to address food insecurity among the wider community in the famine-prone Rift Valley.
The Global Teacher Prize is presented annually to an exceptional teacher who has made an outstanding contribution to their profession.
This story was first published by Capital News.
