🪧Because behind every slap, there was a lesson.
“I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy.” Philippians 1:3-4
This is Mr. Kyalo. Our Business Education, Kiswahili, and Art & Craft maestro 👏🏽 My teenage self thought he was the coolest adult alive. Why?
His neat punk hairstyle had more swagger than an urban matatu on a Friday afternoon. His signature cologne added to the flair. His high waist trousers and that bouncy walking style completed the look.
Ruai Primary was his first posting. Fresh out of college in 1992. Youthful. Vibrant. And slightly terrifying.
Yes, he administered those legendary lightning slaps⚡️and ear pinches. These made you reconsider all your life choices by 10am.
But we loved him. Why?
Because unlike most other teachers, he was close to our age. He understood our mischief. He was our unofficial Chief Defense Minister. Always cutting us some slack on petty offenses and rogue adventures.
Funny thing? Teaching wasn’t his dream. He began as a matatu turn boy.
But his influential mother pulled the plug on that lane and gave him two options:
- Stay upcountry
- Enroll in a Teacher Training College
Two weeks of rural boredom later
A teacher was born. And 32 years later, he’s still at it.
Had life gone another way, he might have been plating five-star meals as a chef. But instead, he chose to plate wisdom, wit, and weird punishments on our school desks.
Today, we returned. Former students, now grown. To laugh, reminisce, and say “Thank You, Mwalimu.”
We talked about everything. From classroom chaos to cologne, and you know what? It felt good to be home.
Dear Mr. Kyalo, Your slaps stung 😖. But, your impact stuck.
Asante sana. You taught more than subjects. You shaped lives.
📚Read other inspiring teacher stories:
- 2024: The Bell Rang, We Came Back: Honoring Ruai Primary Teachers
- 2023: Laughter, Chalk & Legacy: Honoring Our Ruai Primary Teachers – Year 3!
- 2022: When the Students Give Back: Ruai Primary Reunited, Retired, and Remembered
- 2021: Nine Families, Countless Blessings: A Journey Back to Those Who Raised Us
👉 Click the links above or check the “Alumni Stories” category on my blog.
💬 I’d Love to Hear From You!
Do you have a memorable story, lesson, or laugh shared with Mr. Kyalo? Or a teacher who shaped your life?
Drop it in the comments below! Let’s honor the unsung heroes who raised us with rulers, rhymes, and relentless love.
🔖#CelebrateYourTeacher, #LegacyInLearning, #RuaiPrimary, #UnsungHeroes, #TeachersMatter
Joseph Ngaara is inspired by people’s life experiences. Do you have an intriguing life story and need to share your triumph or tragedy? Email: j.mungai@hotmail.co.uk
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