iHUB, Kenya’s premier innovation and technology ecosystem enabler, has honoured four exceptional educators through the inaugural iHUB Teachers’ Awards — a new platform designed to celebrate the creativity, resilience, and groundbreaking work of teachers across the country.
Launched in October during iHUB’s 2025 World Teachers’ Day celebrations, the awards spotlight educators who are harnessing technology and collaboration to elevate classroom practice and transform learning experiences.
The awards honour those whose dedication, creativity and commitment to collaboration continue to redefine learning. More than a recognition platform, the Teacher Awards amplify the power of teacher agency, peer mentorship and community-driven growth.
By spotlighting teachers who invest in their colleagues, champion professional development and share knowledge generously, the awards affirm one truth: when teachers learn, grow and lead together, the entire education ecosystem thrives.
The inaugural Teachers’ Awards recognised exceptional educators across several categories: Elly Opio (Innovative Teacher), Nelly Kagoro (Peer Learning), and Gitau Muiruri (Community Champion).
A special honorary award was presented to Isaac Kinyanjui posthumously for his instrumental role in building the teacher community through training on digital lab use via the Go Labs Goes Africa project and continuous professional development on digital literacy.
“These awardees represent the very best of Kenya’s teaching profession—innovators, collaborators, and true community champions. Their commitment to integrating technology, fostering peer mentorship, and championing digital literacy demonstrates the profound agency teachers possess,” said iHub’s education programme manager, Lilian Kibagendi.
“By celebrating them, we not only recognise their achievements but also inspire the wider education sector to embrace new approaches to learning. We also pay special tribute to the late Isaac Kinyanjui; his love, passion, and commitment to professional development will serve as an enduring beacon for our community in the years to come,” she added.
Building a national movement
For more than a decade, iHUB has played a pivotal role in strengthening Kenya’s education ecosystem through programs that connect key stakeholders across the learning value chain, from cultivating teacher communities of practice to running instructional design fellowships that expand the country’s EdTech talent pipeline.
Sharing his thoughts on receiving the Community Champion Award at the first-ever iHUB Teachers’ Awards Mr Gitau Muiruri, a teacher at Enoomatasiani Girls said: “This award is in recognition of my commitment in the teaching profession. I do a lot of teacher mentorship within and outside our school in key thematic areas like lesson planning, study and observation.”
“I am a selected mentor by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), funded by the World Bank in a programme called School Based Teacher Support System (SPTSS). This also means creating and maintaining professional learning communities both offline and online,” added Mr Muiruri.
“I also want to encourage all teachers to join Teachers Lounge so that we can learn from each other. I also want to encourage all teachers to engage in Continuos Professional Development (CPD). Such initiatives help us become better every other day.”
iHUB’s highlights in teacher empowerment and digital innovation
In 2025, iHUB’s education initiatives delivered strong, measurable impact across teacher development and digital capacity-building. Over the year, the organisation conducted five targeted training sessions, strengthening the skills and confidence of educators nationwide.
Through these efforts, 72 teachers were equipped with essential digital literacy skills, enabling them to integrate technology more effectively into their classrooms.
iHUB also continued to deepen peer-to-peer learning, with 42 teachers actively participating in mentorship programmes designed to foster collaboration and shared expertise. The organisation’s growing teacher ecosystem remained vibrant, with 310 educators engaged in its community network, benefiting from continuous learning and support.
In addition, the Soma Bot programme expanded its reach locally, training 110 Kenyan teachers to leverage AI-powered tools that enhance instructional delivery and student engagement.
Together, these milestones reflect iHUB’s sustained commitment to empowering educators and strengthening Kenya’s education ecosystem through technology, community, and innovation.
The iHUB Teachers’ Awards attracted 136 applications, 51 from within the iHUB community and 85 from external educators — all assessed through a rigorous review process.
iHUB aims to scale the awards in the coming years to reach teachers nationwide, celebrating innovation and agency in both well-resourced and underserved environments.
The long-term vision is to build a national movement that recognises and empowers teacher-led innovation.
By introducing the Teachers’ Awards, iHUB reinforces its commitment to strengthening teacher communities and equipping educators with the technology and support they need to thrive.
To learn more, apply for the iHUB Teachers’ Awards, or follow Teachers’ Month activities, visit here.
