Nakuru teacher Fenwick Maloba attempts Guinness World Record with 45-hour math lesson

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Fenwick Cyril Maloba, a teacher at Menengai High School in Nakuru County, is undertaking a marathon classroom challenge: a 45-hour continuous mathematics lesson meant to shatter the existing Guinness World Record of 31 hours, 42 minutes, and 54 seconds set by Sanusi Kazeem. 

Branded "Mathematics Is Not A Monster, It's A Marathon," the attempt is both an endurance feat and an educational campaign to change how learners view the subject.

The lesson is taking place on the Menengai High School campus and must meet Guinness World Records’ strict conditions. Maloba is required to teach actively throughout the attempt with a live audience of at least 10–15 students present at all times. 

To keep energy and attention sustained, student groups will rotate, ensuring continuous engagement while complying with the rule that allows a five-minute break for every hour taught. Organizers will document the entire session with witnesses and recordings to validate the attempt.

Beyond record-breaking, Maloba’s motivation is rooted in profession of teaching and public perception. He wants to demystify mathematics, showing that the subject is structured, logical, and accessible rather than intimidating and stressful. 

By framing the session as a marathon, he showcased determination and steady effort as keys to success in math, aiming to inspire learners and fellow teachers alike.

The 45-hour target, if successful, may transform attitudes toward mathematics and empower students to approach the subject with confidence rather than fear.

The attempt has drawn attention on social media and among local news outlets, highlighting Maloba’s stamina and his passion for mathematics education, bringing to life the ‘mwalimu wa maths’ humor. @simonwaruiru, commented, “Its always the maths teacher”, @ rachael_vidija, posted “This is a punishment”, @ rayanwaindi, commented, “Na ni swali tuuh ni wanafunzi wagani wanaeza survive Hadi 40min kabla usingizi ipite ama anafunza walimu” and @ komen_max, posted, “Naona wanafunzi wamelala hapo”

The challenge comes after several strings of events where various Kenyans embarked on the same journey of attempting to break records.

From Doky Dorkas who participated in making chapatis in few minutes, Truphena Muthoni who hugged a tree 72 hours to Hilary Kibiwott who attempted to break record by planting 23,326 trees.