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The Kenya Primary Schools Headteachers Association (KEPSHA) has ushered in new leadership following the unfortunate passing of its national chairman, Johnson Matheka Nzioka. Ali Fuad, the former Vice Chairman, has now been sworn in as the acting chairperson, stepping into a critical role that shapes the future of primary school leadership in Kenya.
Who is Ali Fuad?

Ali Fuad is an experienced education leader with a strong background in school administration and policy advocacy. Before being sworn in as the acting chairperson of KEPSHA, he served as the National Vice Chairman, working closely with the late Johnson Matheka Nzioka to implement key policies aimed at strengthening primary school leadership in Kenya.
Fuad has built a reputation as a champion of education reforms, particularly in the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), where he has been actively involved in advocating for:
- Comprehensive teacher training to ensure educators effectively deliver CBC content.
- Better resource allocation to ensure schools are well-equipped.
- Smooth learner transitions from primary to junior secondary education.
Beyond his role in KEPSHA, Fuad is a strong advocate for environmental sustainability in education. He believes that primary school headteachers should take a leading role in climate action through initiatives like:
- Tree planting programs in schools.
- Clean energy adoption to promote sustainability.
- Proper waste management to ensure environmentally friendly school environments.
Additionally, Fuad is committed to expanding KEPSHA’s influence both locally and internationally. He aims to align KEPSHA’s leadership with the KEPSHA constitution, ensuring that policies governing primary school headteachers are well-implemented. He is also expected to play a key role in the upcoming KEPSHA conference, where education stakeholders discuss policy changes, teacher development, and school improvement strategies.
As he steps into the role of acting chairperson, Fuad brings years of leadership experience, a deep understanding of education policies, and a passion for empowering school heads. His appointment marks a new chapter for KEPSHA, as it continues advocating for the rights and welfare of primary school teachers and learners across Kenya.
Fuad’s Key Focus Areas
In his inaugural speech, Fuad outlined several key priorities that will define his tenure:
1. Strengthening the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC)
Fuad emphasized his commitment to ensuring the effective implementation of CBC. He aims to push for:
- More teacher training programs to help educators navigate the CBC system effectively.
- Sufficient learning resources to ensure schools can deliver quality education.
- Policies that align with the KEPSHA constitution and address the needs of both learners and teachers.
2. Environmental Conservation in Schools
Fuad also highlighted the need for schools to take a leading role in environmental conservation. Under his leadership, KEPSHA will encourage initiatives such as:
- Tree planting programs in schools.
- Proper waste management strategies.
- Adoption of clean and renewable energy sources.
3. Expanding KEPSHA’s Influence
Fuad intends to strengthen KEPSHA’s engagement with key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Education and international education organizations. He also aims to make the KEPSHA conference more impactful by focusing on:
- Teacher welfare discussions.
- Policy reforms that align with the evolving CBC structure.
- Advocacy for school heads, ensuring their voices are heard in national decision-making.
4. Advocacy for Headteachers’ Welfare
Primary school headteachers play a crucial role in education, yet they often face challenges such as overwhelming workloads and insufficient support. Fuad has committed to pushing for:
- Career development opportunities for school heads.
- Fair remuneration and improved working conditions.
- Programs that support the mental well-being of school administrators.
A Tribute to Johnson Matheka Nzioka

The late Johnson Matheka Nzioka is remembered for his dedication to improving primary education in Kenya. His contributions included:
- Supporting the smooth transition of learners from primary to junior secondary under CBC.
- Championing teachers’ rights and pushing for better school management policies.
- Actively participating in education reforms that continue to impact Kenya’s learning environment.
What Next for KEPSHA?
As Ali Fuad takes on this leadership role, KEPSHA is expected to continue advocating for policies that support both learners and teachers. His vision aligns with ongoing reforms aimed at improving the quality of education in Kenya.
The coming months will be crucial as Fuad works to implement his plans. Teachers, school heads, and education stakeholders will be watching closely to see how his leadership shapes the future of primary school education in the country.