Every morning, Francis Obwamu walks through the gates of Mumias Central Comprehensive School with a simple responsibility: to give thousands of learners a chance to discover what they are capable of.

That quiet commitment has steadily transformed the school into a respected centre of learning, attracting more than 3,500 learners from Kakamega, Busia and Bungoma counties.

Now, Obwamu’s work has received wider recognition.

The Head of Institution was today named Overall Best Teacher in School leadership award during a colourful World Teachers’ Day celebration at St Peter’s Mumias National School.

The award by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) recognised his work in leadership, mentorship and inclusion.

For Obwamu, however, the recognition is closely tied to the people he works with every day — the teachers who give their best, the learners who keep pushing themselves and parents who continue to entrust their children to the school.

His leadership style is simple: stay close to the learners, support teachers and make education meaningful.

He is known for interacting freely with learners, understanding their needs and encouraging teachers to look beyond the classroom when nurturing talent and character.

That approach has helped Mumias Central build a strong record in both academics and co-curricular activities.

The school has posted notable academic results, including 424 marks in national ranking, while its learners have continued to participate strongly in music, drama and sports.

But perhaps the clearest sign of the school’s growing reputation is its rising enrolment.

Parents from neighbouring counties are increasingly choosing Mumias Central, drawn by its academic record, discipline, talent development and the confidence created by its leadership.

Obwamu has also encouraged teachers to embrace the practical side of Competency-Based Education (CBE), giving learners opportunities to develop skills, creativity and confidence alongside academic knowledge.

His leadership has attracted support from education stakeholders, with Mumias West CDF supporting the construction of additional classrooms as the institution continues to grow.

Obwamu is also pushing for further development of the school, including a modern storey classroom block that will support its long-term growth.

For a teacher who has spent much of his career working directly with learners, the TSC award is a significant moment.

It is also a reflection of what can happen when leadership is built around people.

At Mumias Central, Obwamu’s story is increasingly becoming part of the school’s own story — one of steady growth, committed teachers, ambitious learners and a community that believes in the power of education.