Dr. Aliva: Principal Raising Teremi Boys High School’s Academic Bar
When Dr. Elphas Aliva took over as the Principal of Teremi Boys High School in 2021, the institution was in a state of disarray, grappling with a Ksh. 58 million debt and academic stagnation. However, Aliva, with a deep sense of purpose and resolve, embraced the challenge of revitalizing the school. He believed in the potential of the institution and was determined to steer it toward success.
Upon his arrival, Dr. Aliva faced resistance from entrenched interests, including powerful cartels within the school. However, he remained steadfast, prioritizing the school’s long-term development over immediate challenges. With a vision to elevate the school’s academic standards and reputation, he set about implementing reforms aimed at improving not only the school’s financial stability but also its educational outcomes.
In just a few years, under his leadership, Teremi Boys High School has seen a remarkable transformation. The school’s population has surged to over 2,000 students, and its academic performance is now among the best in the Western region. Dr. Aliva’s focus on academic excellence and holistic development has earned the school a reputation as one of the fastest-improving institutions in the area.
Dr. Aliva’s vision for Teremi Boys is clear: to create an academic hub that empowers young people with the skills, values, and attitudes necessary to succeed in higher education and careers that contribute to nation-building. He has ensured that the school consistently remains in the academic spotlight, thanks to a committed team of teachers and a proactive student council that drives the school’s initiatives.
“As part of maintaining its image, the entire teaching staff aspires to uphold high levels of professionalism and competence. Teamwork is essential to our teaching and learning process, and we are dedicated to collaboration with all stakeholders, ensuring transparency and accountability in all our operations,” said Dr. Aliva.
One of Dr. Aliva’s key initiatives has been to ensure the implementation of an efficient curriculum, focusing on regular monitoring and evaluation. This has created a conducive learning environment for students and teachers alike. His efforts have yielded impressive retention and completion rates, with a goal of 99% retention and 90% completion. He has also worked hard to reduce dropout rates by providing access to education for economically disadvantaged students.
Dr. Aliva has also prioritized the education of boys, recognizing that many young men in the community fall into low-income jobs such as Boda bodas or cane cutters after dropping out of school. Through his efforts, Teremi Boys has introduced various subjects including French, Life Skills, and Computer Studies, helping students gain diverse skills for future careers.
To further improve academic performance, the school has implemented a new policy of per-term testing, with Form Three and Four students now sitting for full K.C.S.E. exam papers. Forms One and Two take three well-spaced exams per term, all marked out of 100%. Additionally, the school has embraced a vertical teaching approach, offering remedial classes in the mornings, evenings, and on weekends to ensure students receive personalized attention.
Despite these successes, Dr. Aliva notes that Teremi Boys still faces significant challenges, including a shortage of teachers and inadequate infrastructure to accommodate the growing student population. To address these issues, the school is currently constructing additional dormitories and urgently requires a multi-purpose hall to support its expanding academic and extracurricular activities.
“We are grateful for the continued support from our local political leaders, including the area MCA and MP, who have been instrumental in helping us secure resources for these projects. We are confident that with their continued partnership, we will achieve our goal of providing the best possible education for our students,” Dr. Aliva added.
With a clear focus on academic excellence, student welfare, and community engagement, Dr. Aliva is laying the foundation for a brighter future at Teremi Boys High School. His leadership has already turned the tide for the institution, positioning it as a beacon of hope for students in the region.
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