Unicaf University & Ascent Soccer Announce Partnership

Malawi’s only full-time residential football academy, Ascent Soccer, has excitingly announced a new partnership with Unicaf University, one of the leading higher education providers across Africa.

The partnership aims to facilitate access to Unicaf University’s nationally and internationally accredited degree programmes for Ascent Soccer players who are now eligible for enrollment into Unicaf University’s unique online and blended degree programmes after they complete secondary school.

Ascent Soccer co-founder George Maguire commented, “We are delighted to partner with such a prestigious university to provide further education pathways for a greater number of Ascent players – especially for our female players where well-paying soccer opportunities are lacking within the region. Having an internationally recognised degree greatly enhances employment prospects for young people for a career outside, or after football opportunities have been pursued”.

Unicaf University Vice-Chancellor Dr. Robert Ridley added, “We greatly value this partnership with Ascent Soccer, further enhancing our interaction with sports and recreational activities and promoting overall wellness and fitness as well as academic excellence. We look forward to welcoming Ascent Soccer athletes as students.”

Ascent Soccer plan to enrol one or two students by the end of 2023 to activate this partnership, with a view to increasing the number of players accessing degree opportunities as they graduate from secondary school.