The Directorate of Research and Innovation at St. Paul’s University, through a grant from Templeton Religion Trust TRT-2025-35778 titled “Spiritual Capital and Youth Innovation in an Age of Economic Anxiety”, is pleased to announce 22 Postgraduate Student Scholarships for Master’s and PhD students. The project is funded as part of the University’s commitment to the integration of faith and science in the context of social transformation and innovation. It explores how faith functions as “spiritual capital” for young Kenyan innovators navigating economic uncertainty, and how entrepreneurial activities are undertaken by faith-based organizations. The project examines how virtues such as hope, grit, and stewardship, together with networks and imaginative frameworks, enable people to navigate economic anxiety with creativity rather than despair.

The Scholarship Opportunity

We are looking for 22 promising and dedicated Master’s and PhD students who have completed coursework, and will be embarking on their research phase beginning January 2027 in theology, counselling psychology, development studies, business, leadership studies, or other relevant areas. We may consider PhD theology students who are new students and have a strong research profile.

Scholarships will be awarded according to the following schedule:

•        School of Theology: 2 PhD, 8 MTh students
•        School of Business & Leadership: 1 PhD, 3 Masters
•        School of Education & Social Sciences: 1 PhD, 3 Masters
•        School of Communication & Computer Studies: 1 PhD, 3 Masters

Selected postgraduate students will receive:

1. Tuition Support for the dissertation phase.
2. Research field support for data collection in unique cases.
3. Direct Mentorship from experienced scholars and industry leaders.
4. Publication Support through the SPU Research Office.
5. Conference or workshop presentation training and opportunities.

Students will be required to present their work at academic conferences, seminars, and workshops, and to provide administrative and leadership support on a need-to-need basis.

Research Themes

Applicants should propose a research concept related to one of the following:

1. Theology of Innovation: How religious texts inspire economic creativity; theological formulations of economic issues; doctrinal or interreligious perspectives on social innovation and transformation; ecclesial practices as religious innovation; and how digital innovation can strengthen Christian ministry, discipleship, or formation.
2. Faith-Based Entrepreneurial or Innovation Hubs: The role of churches/mosques as business or entrepreneurial incubators.
3. Resilience and Anxiety: How spirituality mediates the stress of youth entrepreneurship; mental health among youth innovators; and youth entrepreneurship and spiritual resilience.
4. Digital Faith: Religious innovation in the tech and creative arts sectors; technological innovation and mental health.
5. Youth and Technology Innovation: Catalysing youth innovation for faith-based organizations, enterprises, and institutions; and the role of faith-based institutions in addressing youth unemployment; technological innovation and economic integration.

The above themes are provisional and applicants may expand on the above areas in their conceptualization.

Application Requirements

Interested candidates must submit an application package containing:

1. Cover letter: Provide personal and professional details, explain why you should be considered for the scholarship, and show how you meet the criteria.
2. Research concept note (use the concept note outline): Outline your proposed study, research questions, and how it aligns with the “Spiritual Capital” project. See the project website for more details.
3. Updated curriculum vitae (CV) — maximum 4 pages: Highlight academic achievements, relevant work experience, community engagement activities, and any prior research experience.
4. Academic transcripts: Show completion of Master’s coursework with a minimum B average.
5. Recommendation letters: Submit letters from (1) your current departmental head or a senior faculty member, and (2) your church leader/pastor.

How to Apply

Please send your application as a single PDF document to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with the subject line: "Application: Faith Innovation Fellowship – [Your Name]".

• Application deadline: 14^th September 2026
• Shortlisted interviews: From 5^th October 2026
• Communication to successful applicants: 26^th October 2026
• Grantees’ meeting with grantor: 9^th November 2026
• Research start date: January 2027

"Join us in redefining the intersection of faith and the marketplace. We aren't just looking for students; we are looking for the next generation of African thought leaders."

— Directorate of Research and Innovation