Who is New Basic Education PS John Ololtuaa? His Career Journey and Background

President William Ruto has appointed John Lekakeny Ololtuaa as the new Principal Secretary for Basic Education following changes made in the government on Tuesday, June 9.

Ololtuaa replaces Julius Bitok, who was moved to the State Department for Tourism.

The experienced education administrator takes over at a time when the country is facing concerns over student unrest and several school fire incidents that have disrupted learning in different parts of Kenya.

Early Life and Education

John Ololtuaa was born in Kilgoris in Narok County. He started his education at God-Ngoche Primary School before joining Sosio Secondary School.

He later transferred to Narok High School, where he completed his Kenya Advanced Certificate of Education (KACE).

Ololtuaa furthered his studies at Kenyatta University, where he earned a Bachelor of Education (Arts) degree and later a Master’s degree in Education Administration.

Career in the Education Sector

His teaching career began in 1993 when he joined the profession as an assistant teacher.

Over the years, he rose through different positions within the education sector. He served as principal of Ennosaen Secondary School before becoming a District Education Officer in Suba, Mbita and Bomet.

He later worked as County Director of Education in Bomet and Kajiado counties.

Ololtuaa also held the position of Regional Director of Education, where he oversaw education matters in Nairobi, Eastern, Rift Valley and Central regions.

Experience in Public Service

Apart from education, Ololtuaa played a role in the implementation of devolution after the 2010 Constitution. He served under the Transition Authority and also worked as the County Transition Coordinator for Narok County.

In 2022, President Ruto appointed him Principal Secretary for Tourism.

During his time in the tourism ministry, he promoted local tourism, strengthened partnerships with the private sector and supported efforts aimed at increasing the sector’s contribution to the economy.

Community Involvement

Ololtuaa has also been involved in programmes that support young people and vulnerable communities.

He has taken part in mentorship initiatives, scholarship programmes and campaigns against drug abuse.

Returns to Education Ministry

With more than 30 years of experience in education and public service, Ololtuaa returns to the education sector with extensive knowledge in administration and policy implementation.

His appointment comes at a time when the government is seeking solutions to challenges affecting schools, including student unrest, safety concerns and improving the quality of education across the country.

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