Kenyan Teacher Completes 45-Hour Mathematics Lesson Marathon in Bid for Guinness World Record
The achievement is subject to verification by Guinness World Records, which must review submitted evidence before officially recognizing any new record.
Fenwick Cyril Maloba, a Mathematics and Physics teacher at Menengai High School in Nakuru County, celebrates after completing a 45-hour mathematics teaching marathon, surpassing the previous world benchmark pending Guinness World Records verification. Photo/ Courtesy.
By Sonia Mitchel
A Kenyan mathematics teacher has completed a 45-hour continuous teaching marathon, surpassing the previous benchmark for the longest mathematics lesson as he awaits official verification from Guinness World Records.
Fenwick Cyril Maloba, a Mathematics and Physics teacher at Menengai High School in Nakuru County, concluded the marathon after teaching for nearly two consecutive days. The record attempt began on June 26 and exceeded the previous mark of 31 hours and 42 minutes, which was set by a Nigerian educator.
The achievement is subject to verification by Guinness World Records, which must review submitted evidence before officially recognizing any new record.
Maloba’s challenge drew widespread support from students, teachers, education stakeholders and members of the public, many of whom followed the event in person and through online platforms.
Throughout the marathon, the educator continued delivering mathematics lessons while complying with Guinness World Records guidelines governing endurance teaching attempts.
The rules required uninterrupted instruction, the presence of students throughout the session, independent witnesses, continuous video documentation and adherence to regulated rest periods. Participants are permitted only limited breaks accrued from each hour completed.
Speaking after finishing the marathon, Maloba said the challenge was intended to inspire learners and transform attitudes toward mathematics.
“This achievement is about showing students that mathematics is not something to fear. It requires patience, practice and determination,” he said.
The marathon was conducted under the theme, “Maths is not a monster; it’s a marathon,” reflecting Maloba’s campaign to encourage learners to approach the subject with confidence and persistence.
Education stakeholders praised the initiative, describing it as an example of innovation and commitment within Kenya’s teaching profession.
They said the record attempt highlights the important role teachers play in motivating learners beyond the classroom while promoting academic excellence.
Students who attended the lessons also commended Maloba’s determination, saying the marathon demonstrated the value of resilience, discipline and hard work.
The event has generated national attention and sparked discussions about improving mathematics education and encouraging positive attitudes toward science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects.
Mathematics remains one of the core subjects in Kenya’s competency-based education system and is regarded as fundamental to careers in engineering, medicine, information technology and other scientific fields.
Although Guinness World Records has yet to ratify the attempt, Maloba’s 45-hour teaching marathon has already been widely celebrated as a remarkable accomplishment that has placed Kenya in the global spotlight.
If approved, the feat would establish a new world record for the longest continuous mathematics lesson and further cement Kenya’s growing reputation for producing record-breaking achievements in education, sports and endurance challenges.
About Author
