Police officer teaches Mathematics in conflict-prone area after teachers fail to show up

Police Constable Jairus Mulumia was posted to Forole Primary School on the Kenya-Ethiopia border to provide security but he noticed a gap.

Due to conflict and insecurity in the area, some teachers failed to show up for the new term, leaving pupils unattended.

Mulumia, who is also a trained teacher, decided to take up a Grade Five class and teach Mathematics.

A photo of the officer solving Math problems on the blackboard went viral and many stated that he should be recognized for his kind and selfless gesture.

When asked to comment on the matter, Mulumia was reluctant to divulge a lot of information, saying he needs authorization from his bosses.

“It is something that just happened spontaneously. I did not even know my photo was trending online because the people who took it only said they were documenting about education in the region.

“Once I have authorisation from my bosses, I will be able to give you further details,’’ he said.

Eastern Regional Police Commander Eunice Kihiko praised Mulumia for his actions saying it is great to see officers going out of their way to serve humanity.

In recent months, Forole has experienced a number of attacks and over 20 lives have been lost.

Many children have also quit school but Mulumia offers hope to pupils who feel safe as he takes them through their Math problems.