A headteacher has collapsed dead at Kyotera District headquarters, leaving teachers, pupils, and officials in disbelief over the sudden loss of one of the area’s longest-serving educators.
The deceased, Thaddeus Lutankome of Nkoni Primary School, had gone to the district offices on Tuesday afternoon to seek help on how to keep candidate classes running during a teachers’ strike. Colleagues later said he had looked energetic and determined, yet within hours he had collapsed and died before receiving treatment at Kyotera Medical Centre.
The news spread quickly through schools across the district, where Lutankome was widely known for his strict discipline and tireless devotion to pupils. For more than 15 years he headed Nkoni Primary, arriving early, leaving late, and often sacrificing personal time to keep his school in order.
Education leaders described him as a rare figure in the profession. District officials remembered him as a dependable man who kept the system running during difficult times, while the teachers’ union praised him as an honest treasurer and a voice of reason in meetings. Inspectors recalled finding him still at his desk long after dark, preparing lessons and reviewing reports.
His sudden death has left pupils without a mentor at a crucial time, as final exams draw near. Parents in the area said the tragedy has underlined the heavy strain placed on school leaders, who often juggle administration and teaching with little rest.
As investigations continue to establish the cause of his death, the district has been plunged into mourning. Educators across Kyotera said Lutankome’s absence will be felt deeply, describing him as a man who lived and died in service of education.
