Officer in charge of Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education papers distribution collapses and dies in Bomet

Bomet, Kenya: The on-going Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education Examination was on Tuesday temporarily thrown into disarray in Bomet County after an officer in charge of distribution and receipt collapsed and died.

Philemon Koech was headed to the armoury where exam had been kept at Bomet Police Station when it is reported that he felt dizzy and decided to rest on a bench in a hotel.

According to the County Director of Education Hellen Nyangau, Koech collapsed at the bench and was rushed to Tenwek Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

"It is indeed shocking that we lost one of our officers who was in charge of distributing and receiving examination. His death created some little confusion but everything was brought under control," said Nyangau.

She said Koech was Teacher Advisory Center (TAC) tutor in Bomet Township and came from Tarakwa village.

She revealed that the doctors said the teacher died of heart attack.

"The doctors said the teacher died of heart attack but the family said he had a history of diabetes and high blood pressure," said the director in her office.

Nyangau moved to assure the candidates that all was well despite the unfortunate occurrence.

"We want to assure the candidates not to panic as everything is in place. Our office will ensure that all candidates will sit for their exam on time," she said.

The Kenya National Union of Teachers Bomet Chapter termed the fallen teacher as dedicated and always punctual in executing his duties.

Branch Executive Secretary Malel Langat said they received the news with utter shock since the teacher had left his home in high spirits.

"We want to appeal to the Kenya National Examination Council to show concern and assist the family of the deceased because he lost his life in line of duty," said Langat.