Hundreds of financially struggling young people who miss out on university education after high school are now finding renewed hope through sports scholarship programmes that allow them to study while nurturing their talent.
At the heart of this transformation is Zetech University, which is using sports as a bridge to higher education for talented but underprivileged youth across East Africa.
The institution’s scholarship programme supports students excelling in football, rugby, basketball and other disciplines, giving them an opportunity to pursue degree courses of their choice while sharpening their sporting skills and building networks beyond Kenya’s borders.
Speaking during regional friendly matches held at the university’s Mang’u Campus grounds in Juja, John Mwai, Director of Corporate Affairs and Marketing, said the initiative is part of the university’s commitment to giving back to society. The matches brought together teams from across the East African region in a show of unity and peace.
Mwai revealed that the university spends approximately Sh10 million annually to support talented and needy youth through the sports scholarship programme.
“This initiative is helping save many young people from antisocial behaviours such as theft, alcohol and drug abuse, unplanned pregnancies and political exploitation,” he said.
According to Mwai, many young people who fail to transition to university due to lack of fees often find themselves vulnerable. Through the scholarship, beneficiaries not only access education but also gain discipline, exposure and life skills that help them build sustainable careers.
He noted that the programme will continue expanding, urging young people across Kenya and neighbouring countries to take advantage of opportunities that combine education and talent development.
For Monalisa Anyango, a student and footballer under the programme, the scholarship has completely changed her life.
“If it were not for this scholarship, I might have ended up on the streets. My future is now brighter than ever,” she said.
Anyango warned fellow young women against depending on men for financial survival, saying such reliance exposes them to exploitation, risky relationships and unplanned pregnancies.
“My fellow girls, stop relying on men’s money to survive or show off. Focus on your talent and build something for yourself,” she urged.
She added that football has enabled her to earn an income, live independently and comfortably pay her bills — a reality she once thought impossible.
The programme continues to inspire youth across East Africa, proving that with the right support, talent can open doors to education, stability and long-term success.
