He is very popular with his online fans, as he engages with them especially on his Facebook page.
In an article published on globalteacherprize.org, Orina is praised for being a transformative force in education.
Orina, is a 34-year-old teacher who has been using the power of education to uplift communities.
Since his appointment in 2017, he has combined innovation, resilience, and compassion to address challenges faced by his students and community, his impactful work earning him recognition as a transformative force in education.
In an update on his Facebook page, Orina announced
“Overwhelmed and honored to let you know that I have been shortlisted to the top 50 of the 9th GLOBAL TEACHER PRIZE! This wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support of my amazing people, like you. Keep me in your prayers to carry the trophy home by the end of the competition🏆🙏 My students, parents, teachers and the entire community let us share this blessing. Improving people’s lives through education is our priority. Glory be to God.”
A science teacher, Peter Tabachi, who won that award in 2019, has also congratulated him on his X.com account, Tabachi wrote
“
Congratulations to all the 2025 Top 50 Global Teacher Prize Finalists!
Special applause to Dominic Ming’ate Orina from Kenya for transforming lives through innovative teaching, sustainable agriculture, and community empowerment”
community leader and global advocate
His dedication has caught the attention of national leaders, including Kenya’s First Lady, who invited him to contribute to a nationwide school meals program.
Arriving in Bomet, Dominic identified a widespread lack of vegetables and fruits in a region dominated by tea farming, a scarcity affecting the community’s nutrition and his own livelihood. With limited land access, he devised a creative solution—using recycled materials such as sacks and containers to grow vegetables. He introduced this innovative and successful gardening approach to his students, integrating it into agriculture lessons.
Dominic’s students learn both theory and practice, cultivating vegetables and keeping rabbits on school grounds, the harvest shared among students, fostering improved nutrition at home. Beyond the classroom, Dominic collaborates with students and parents to establish kitchen gardens, promoting self-sufficiency and financial literacy through surplus vegetable sales, significantly improving community nutrition, with children proudly showcasing their homegrown produce.
He employs a learner-centred, collaborative teaching style combining traditional and digital methods. He integrates technology into English lessons using tablets loaded with digital storybooks, significantly enhancing students’ reading and communication skills, particularly in English. Group activities in the garden and classroom encourage teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving, while practical, hands-on learning fosters deep understanding and creativity.
Through annual vegetable gardening exhibitions, Dominic connects his students with diverse audiences, nurturing their global citizenship skills. He is also working to establish international student exchange programs, broadening his pupils’ horizons and preparing them for the interconnected world. He integrates climate education into his projects by emphasizing water conservation, soil protection, and organic farming. His innovative use of recycled materials for gardening and promotion of tree planting highlight commitment to environmental stewardship. Practicing and teaching sustainable methods, Dominic equips his students with the skills and mindset to combat climate challenges.
His efforts have transformed his school into a beacon of innovation and hope. His students consistently excel in agriculture projects, and their improved discipline, responsibility, and academic performance reflect his influence. Recognized by national media and educators worldwide, Dominic is setting new standards in teaching, demonstrating that education is a powerful tool for societal change. His work exemplifies how one teacher’s vision and dedication can create a ripple effect, improving lives and inspiring future generations.
by MAUREEN WARUINGE
