Governor Rotich’s Pepea Athletics Scholarship Program Propels Local Talent to Global Stage

Thirty-four students were selected for the prestigious Pepea athletics scholarship program following a thrilling final held at Tambach Teachers Training College on Sunday. Additionally, another 23 athletes are poised to qualify for opportunities in the United States of America (USA) pending ratification of their timings. These athletes, hailing from the county, competed in 800, 3000, and 5000-meter races to achieve qualifying times in both men’s and women’s categories.

This initiative forms part of Governor Wisley Rotich’s student uplift program, which aims to provide local youth with opportunities for study and work abroad. To date, 48 students have already benefited from the program, securing enrollment in schools across the USA, Canada, and Australia. The program’s capacity could potentially double with the inclusion of those who achieved qualifying marks and those on the provisional list.

Governor Rotich expressed his congratulations to the qualifying athletes and encouraged those who fell short to persevere, assuring them of future opportunities in April. Betty Kipkore, one of the selected athletes, expressed gratitude to Governor Rotich for initiating the student uplift program, which has paved her path to study in the USA. She highlighted that while she aspired to excel in athletics, the prospect of a scholarship had not previously crossed her mind.

Wilson Chepkwony, one of the coaches overseeing the selection process, outlined that the students would be placed in various universities and colleges in the USA based on their academic credentials, age, and performance. He emphasized that the scholarships would cover all expenses, motivating students with good academic records to pursue their athletic endeavors rigorously, as opportunities abound in the US.

The selection process saw participation from over 240 athletes, underscoring the enthusiasm and talent present within the region’s youth.