At least 14 youths on Wednesday earned themselves scholarships to various universities and colleges in the United States of America.
The 14 were part of the up to 300 youth who turned up for the Townhall athletics time trials at Kipchoge Stadium in Eldoret.
The trials offered an opportunity for youth between 17 and 23 years to attain qualifying times in track and field disciplines. The 14 are 11 women and 3 men.
A group of Kenyans who are working in the US are organizing the trials on behalf of the institutions. Those qualified will also have to satisfy the requirements of enrolment to the colleges, by having attained certain grades in high school.
County Executive for Youth Affairs and Sports, Eng. Lucy Ng’endo, speaking while gracing the event, said the County Government of Uasin Gishu is keen on monetizing sports and exporting talent.
Uasin Gishu Youth Service Policy
Eng Ng’endo said the Uasin Gishu Youth Service Policy, set for presentation in Cabinet soon, has an agenda of, among others, exporting sports talents and skills.
The executive said Governor Dr. Jonathan Bii, E.G.H is focused and keen on youth empowerment, as among the 10 pillars in his development agendas. Director of Governor’s Press, Sila Terikin, had almost similar sentiments.
At least 70 Kenyan athletes are already in the US, thanks to the program. According to the organizers, eight Kenyan athletes supported through this program qualified at a recent USA Track and Field trials.
The athletes who participated in the Wednesday trials came from Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet, Nandi, Nakuru and Kericho counties.
