The Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) and Brookside are working to bring back scholarships during the National Term 1 Games slated for April 9-13 in Machakos.
Wilson Okong’o, Brookside’s communications manager, emphasised the significance of the initiative in providing talented students with opportunities to secure placements in various universities.
“We aspire to elevate the talents of our young athletes to new heights. We are working with KSSSA on a platform where we can secure sports sponsorships for talented students head-hunted during the national games,” said Okong’o.
The opportunities will be granted to top performers in basketball, rugby 15s, hockey, handball, swimming and athletics.
Brookside will support the games for the next four years, injecting Sh30 million into this year’s event.
Sh21.5 million will directly support KSSSA, covering team kits, trophies, medals and logistical expenses.
Sh8.7 million will enhance the overall event experience, including branding and entertainment.
“In 30 years, Brookside has remained steadfast in supporting communities,” said Okong’o.
“We believe in nurturing talent; the reason behind our association with the secondary school games.”
KSSSA director Nelson Sifuna praised the milk processor for continued support, especially during the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“This collaboration sets a positive precedent, encouraging other corporations to follow suit,” Sifuna remarked.
“It signals a return to normalcy for school games and ensures that students receive the support they need.”
Sifuna highlighted the packed schedule for the month, urging fans to turn out in large numbers to support various co-curricular activities.
“In addition to the games in Machakos, we have drama and film festivals in Embu, primary games in Nyeri, special needs games in Nakuru and the Science and Engineering fair in Nairobi,” Sifuna added.
The primary and special needs games will run from Tuesday to Thursday with the drama and film festival set for April 8-16.
KSSSA secretary general David Ngugi said: “KSSSA offers the best platform for students to nurture their talents. We will go bigger this year.”
There will be a clinic for match officials from Saturday to Monday while the teams starct checking in on Sunday.