As the world anticipates the commemoration of World Teachers’ Day, teachers in Western Kenya have been called upon to use the day to plant trees in order to counter the effects of climate change.

The Western Region Teachers Service Commission (TSC) Director, Wilson Koros, while overseeing a pre-commemoration exercise at Bungoma High School, said it’s the prerogative of teachers to conserve the environment by planting trees and setting an example.

He says the planting of fruit trees is preferred as they have a double advantage: they will also provide fruit to the community apart from helping in absorbing carbon dioxide, which is used in photosynthesis.

Further, he disclosed that they are targeting to plant over one million trees by the end of the year and called upon teachers to co-operate in order to achieve this noble cause.

Mr. Koros, however, applauded the efforts of teachers across the region, saying their work has been fully recognized by the commission and their welfare is being looked into.

“Everyone has at one time passed through the hands of teachers and has eventually become successful in their different fields, hence the need to commemorate this day to just appreciate the work done by the teachers at different levels in our lives,” he said.

He disclosed that the national event will be held on October 5th in Nairobi, where the chief guest will be the President, adding that the commission, through its CEO, is focusing on ensuring the teacher prospers.