Training the Next Generation of Coffee Professionals
The NextGen Coffee Leaders Programme is a flagship scholarship initiative by the Java House Foundation, implemented in partnership with the Dedan Kimathi University of Technology (DeKUT).
Launched in May 2026, this programme is designed to nurture and equip young people in Kenya who are passionate about the coffee value chain with the technical expertise, practical experience, and leadership skills needed to succeed in the evolving coffee industry.
Why This Programme Matters
Coffee is deeply embedded in Kenya’s heritage and remains a cornerstone of its economy. As the sector continues to evolve, there is an increasing demand for skilled, innovative, and well-trained young professionals who can ensure continuity and drive its future growth.
To respond to this opportunity, the Java House Foundation, in partnership with the Dedan Kimathi University of Technology (DeKUT), has launched the NextGen Coffee Leaders Scholarship Programme. The programme offers a comprehensive blend of technical training, practical exposure, mentorship, career guidance, and leadership development, preparing young people for meaningful careers in an increasingly global coffee industry.
Through this initiative, 35 young people will be supported: 20 to pursue a Diploma in Coffee Technology and Cupping and 15 to undertake a Certificate in Coffee Technology and Quality Management. Scholars will benefit from full tuition fee scholarship and a monthly stipend, enabling them to focus fully on developing their skills.
The programme is designed to nurture a confident and future-ready generation of coffee professionals who will:
- Improve quality, productivity, and sustainability across the value chain
- Drive innovation within the coffee industry
- Create pathways for youth employment and entrepreneurship
- Promote gender inclusion in technical and leadership roles
- Strengthen collaboration between training institutions, cooperatives, and industry
By investing in young talent, this initiative contributes to a more resilient, competitive, and sustainable coffee sector in Kenya.
What the Programme Offers
35 fully sponsored scholarships, including:
- Diploma in Coffee Technology & Cupping (20 students)
- Certificate in Coffee Technology & Quality Management (15 students)
Scholarship Benefits
- Full tuition
- Monthly stipend
- Hands-on training
- Mentorship and career guidance
General Requirements:
Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Kenyan citizen
- Completed KCSE or equivalent qualification
- Meet minimum academic requirements for the chosen programme
Programme-Specific Requirements:
i. Diploma in Coffee Technology & Cupping
Applicants should have obtained a minimum grade of C- (C minus) in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) or equivalent.
In addition to the minimum grade, applicants must have attained the following subject grades:
- Biology/Agriculture – D+
- Chemistry – D+
- Mathematics – D+
- Physical and Biological Sciences – D+
OR
Be holders of a Stage I Certificate in Coffee Technology or an equivalent qualification from a recognized institution.
ii. Certificate in Coffee Technology & Quality Management
Applicants should have obtained a minimum mean grade of D+ (Plus) in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) or equivalent.
In addition to the minimum grade, applicants must have attained the following subject grades:
- Biology/Agriculture – D
- Chemistry – D
- Mathematics – D
- Physical and Biological Sciences – D
Applicants with a KCSE mean grade of D, together with a relevant coffee certificate or at least one year of experience in the coffee industry, may be considered, subject to approval by the DeKUT Senate.
Additional Requirements
- Aged 18–22 years
- Demonstrated interest in the coffee sector
- Willingness to commit to the full duration of the programme
- Applicants from coffee-growing communities are encouraged to apply
- Female applicants are strongly encouraged
- Candidates from disadvantaged or underrepresented backgrounds will receive special consideration
Required Documents
Applicants must submit:
- Completed DeKUT Application Form.
- Copy of KCSE certificate (or equivalent)
- Motivation letter (max. 2 pages) outlining:
- Your interest in coffee
- Career goals
- How the programme will help you
- Copy of National ID or Birth Certificate
Who Should Apply
- Kenyan citizen
- Completed KCSE (or equivalent)
- Aged 18–22 years
- Demonstrated passion for the coffee sector
How to Apply
Submit your application via email: 📧 nextgencoffee@dkut.ac.ke
Application deadline
The deadline for receiving applications is 18th July 2026, not later than 23:59 hours, East African Time (EAT). Only successful candidates will be contacted after the selection process is complete.
Expected date for admission of selected students at DeKUT: August 2026
Your Future in Coffee Starts Here
This is more than a scholarship; it is your opportunity to build a meaningful career in Kenya’s coffee sector.
Apply today and become part of the next generation of coffee leaders.
Download The Call for Applications Here to Learn More: Link
