Java NextGen Coffee Leaders Scholarship Programme 2026 at Java House

Java NextGen Coffee Leaders Scholarship Programme at Java House

Java House Foundation, in partnership with Dedan Kimathi University of Technology (DeKUT), is offering the
Java NextGen Coffee Leaders Scholarship Programme to support young Kenyans interested in building
careers in the coffee sector.

The programme will support 35 youth through technical training, practical exposure, mentorship,
career guidance, and leadership development in coffee technology and quality management.

Scholarship Summary

  • Scholarship Provider: Java House Foundation
  • Training Institution: Dedan Kimathi University of Technology (DeKUT)
  • Number of Scholarships: 35
  • Location: Kenya
  • Target Group: Kenyan youth aged 18 to 22 years
  • Application Deadline: July 18, 2026

Available Programmes

  • Diploma in Coffee Technology and Cupping – 20 fully sponsored slots
  • Certificate in Coffee Technology and Quality Management – 15 sponsored slots

Scholarship Benefits

  • Full tuition support covering academic, examination, library, and medical fees.
  • Monthly upkeep stipend to support accommodation, meals, and transport during the study period.
  • Hands-on training using modern equipment at the Coffee Technology Centre at DeKUT.
  • Mentorship and career guidance to help scholars transition into the coffee sector.
  • Practical exposure and leadership development for future coffee professionals.

Scholarship Objectives

  • Develop technically skilled young coffee professionals in Kenya.
  • Improve quality, productivity, and sustainability across the coffee value chain.
  • Create employment and entrepreneurship pathways for youth in the coffee industry.
  • Promote gender inclusion in coffee-related technical and leadership roles.
  • Strengthen collaboration between training institutions, cooperatives, and industry players.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • Must be a Kenyan citizen.
  • Must be aged between 18 and 22 years at the time of application.
  • Must have completed KCSE or an equivalent qualification.
  • Must demonstrate clear interest in the coffee sector.
  • Must be willing to commit to the full duration of the training programme.
  • Youth from coffee-growing communities are strongly encouraged to apply.
  • Female applicants are highly encouraged to apply.
  • Applicants from disadvantaged or underrepresented backgrounds will receive special consideration.

Academic Requirements

Diploma in Coffee Technology and Cupping

  • Minimum KCSE mean grade of C- or equivalent.
  • Minimum subject grades: Biology/Agriculture D+, Chemistry D+, Mathematics D+, and Physical/Biological Sciences D+.
  • Applicants with Stage I Certificate in Coffee Technology or an equivalent qualification from a recognized institution may also apply.

Certificate in Coffee Technology and Quality Management

  • Minimum KCSE mean grade of D+ or equivalent.
  • Minimum subject grades: Biology/Agriculture D, Chemistry D, Mathematics D, and Physical/Biological Sciences D.
  • Applicants with a KCSE mean grade of D plus relevant coffee certificate training or at least one year of coffee industry experience may be considered, subject to DeKUT Senate approval.

Required Documents

  • Certified copy of KCSE certificate or equivalent qualification.
  • Letter of motivation of not more than two pages explaining your journey, interest in the coffee sector, future career goals, and how the scholarship will support your growth.
  • Copy of National Identification Card or Birth Certificate.
  • Completed DeKUT admission application form.

How to Apply

  1. Download and fill the DeKUT application form here:

    DeKUT Application Forms
  2. The application fee has been waived by Java Foundation.
  3. Submit the completed DeKUT admission application form together with all required documents to:
    [email protected]
  4. Use the email subject line format:
    YOUR NAME, PROGRAMME APPLIED FOR

    Example: Mary Wanjiku, Diploma in Coffee Technology

Scholar Obligations

Selected scholars will be expected to:

  • Maintain satisfactory academic performance throughout the programme.
  • Participate fully in practical training placements.
  • Follow DeKUT policies, procedures, and regulations.
  • Participate in monitoring, evaluation, and alumni engagement activities.

Enquiries

Important Notice

Applicants should not pay any application, training, notarisation, or certification fee during the recruitment or
scholarship application process. The application fee for this scholarship has been waived by Java Foundation.