Patmoz
The Kenya Women Teachers Association (KEWOTA) celebrated its sixth anniversary on Saturday, November 1, with Chief Executive Officer Benter Opande calling for greater support and recognition of teachers, particularly women, who continue to play a pivotal role in shaping Kenya’s education system.
Speaking during the event, Ms. Opande eloquently highlighted the persistent challenges educators face, including inadequate training on the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), limited infrastructure, mental health pressures, and gender inequality in leadership within educational institutions.
She noted that despite women’s proven competence and contribution, they remain underrepresented in senior leadership roles — a disparity that, she warned, undermines institutional productivity and inclusivity.
“Women teachers have demonstrated excellence and leadership capacity at all levels. It is time to ensure their voices are heard, their efforts recognized, and their contributions valued within the education system,” Ms. Opande said.
Over the past six years, KEWOTA has implemented a range of impactful initiatives designed to empower its members and improve their welfare, including:
The Water Tank Project, which enables members to acquire water tanks through an affordable deposit system.
The Laptop Project, launched in partnership with the Estonian Consulate, providing access to digital books and promoting clean, modern teaching environments free from physical textbooks and chalk.
Table Banking and Scholarship Programs, aimed at enhancing financial independence and educational advancement among members.
Ms. Opande emphasized that the lack of digital tools and infrastructure continues to hinder the full implementation of the CBC. Without laptops and other digital resources, she said, teachers are unable to utilize online materials and demonstrate interactive concepts such as 3D models — challenges that ultimately affect student learning outcomes.
“Digital readiness is no longer optional. To deliver the CBC effectively, teachers must be equipped with modern tools and training to meet the demands of 21st-century learning,” she stressed.
KEWOTA’s vision is to create boundless opportunities for every woman teacher in Kenya by providing a platform for professional growth, recognition, and leadership development. Its mission is to foster professional, economic, and social empowerment through integrated support systems.
Guided by the motto “My Sister’s Keeper,” KEWOTA embodies solidarity, mentorship, and collective progress. The organization also acknowledges male teachers who champion gender equality within the teaching fraternity.
The Association’s core values — equality, dignity, and inclusivity — underpin its “down-up approach” to leadership development, focusing on empowering women teachers to find their voice, influence change, and secure representation on county boards, water boards, and ministerial positions.
Through strategic advocacy and institutional partnerships, KEWOTA continues to elevate women’s leadership potential and amplify their impact on Kenya’s education and national development agenda.
Shadrack Nyakoe
