The Bell Rang, We Came Back: Honoring Ruai Primary Teachers

In 2024, we marked our Fourth Year of a tradition. It is quickly becoming sacred.

We honor the legends who taught us at Ruai Primary.

We didn’t cross borders or book flights. We “zero-grazed” right here in Nairobi. But made meaningful stops in Githunguri, Gatuoro, and Utawala. Where the real VIPs of our past now reside.

This year’s honorees? None other than Mr. Gicharu, Mrs. Njoroge, and Mrs. Ogwang’. Their chalk-stained hands once wrote our futures. This year, it was our turn to write them thank-you notes.

🤗 Mr. Gicharu – The Musical Bee-Fighter

Now retired in Githunguri, Mr. Gicharu taught us the mystery of G and F clefs. With a seriousness that made us either shiver or sing.

We visited him on March 2, 2024.

He officially hung up his teaching boots in 2022. We honored him especially for that heroic day he braved bee stings (yes, actual bees!) to save Class 1 pupils. A melody of bravery and madness we’ll never forget!

🤗 Mrs. Njoroge – The Fierce Five-Star Mum

Living in Gatuoro, Mrs. Njoroge left the blackboard in 2005. We chuckled. Okay, full-on laughed. Remembering her signature class rage that often code-switched from English to Kikuyu.

We visited her on June 1, 2024.

She raised five sons. Alone. She didn’t just conquer verbs and vowels. She conquered life.

🤗 Mrs. Ogwang’ – Still Standing, Still Teaching

In Utawala, Mrs. Ogwang’ is still holding the chalk. With only a few years to go before retirement.

We visited her on October 12, 2024.

She’s weathered more than just lesson plans. Four near-death experiences, and still shows up, smiles, and inspires. Her story redefines resilience.

We cried remembering those wooden desks. We laughed about long-forgotten mischief. We sat with our former teachers. Now elders, and simply said: Thank you.

And behind this unforgettable day? You.

The Ruai Alumni family showed up again. They donated Ksh 262,000. They took on logistics and showed up in person. Most importantly, they gave from the heart.

You didn’t just remember your teachers. You honored them.

Final Bell:

To every Ruai teacher out there. Past, present, and future. May you know just how deeply you’ve mattered. To the alumni: Keep moving forward. This work is sacred.

📚Read other inspiring teacher stories:

👉 Click the links above or check the “Alumni Stories” category on my blog.

🗨️ Share your memories…
What’s one unforgettable moment you had with a teacher? Drop it in the comments. Let’s build a virtual staff room of gratitude.

Let’s keep this torch burning. #CelebrateYourTeacher #GraceForAllGearsOfLife (Isaiah 49:31) #TwoAreBetterThanOne (Ecclesiastes 4:9) #RunWithPerseverance (Hebrews 12:1)

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