Education
128 Scholars from Uganda’s Equity Leaders Program Secure Places at Top Global Universities
128 Equity Leadership Program scholars have secured admission and scholarships to join 62 global universities located in 19 countries around the world.
Equity Group Foundation (EGF) Executive Chairman Dr. James Mwangi commissioned the airlift of the 128 scholars drawn from the Equity Leaders Program in four countries Kenya (87), Rwanda (33), Uganda (4) and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) (4).
Equity Group Foundation (EGF) Executive Chairman Dr. James Mwangi
The scholars have secured scholarships valued at KSh. 2,791,962,093 (USD 21,643,117) for the 4-year duration of their undergraduate studies, and each scholar will receive an airlift token of up to Kshs. 200,000 to support their transition into the global universities.
With this year’s admissions, a total of 1098 students have successfully received admission to prestigious universities on fully funded scholarships. This intake includes 16 students who will be joining Ivy League Universities, including: Columbia University (1), Harvard University (4), Princeton University (8) and University of Pennsylvania (3).
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Dr. James Mwangi underscored the significance of the Equity Leaders Program in shaping the continent’s future. He encouraged the scholars to embrace their global academic journeys not only as a personal achievement but also as a mission to contribute to Africa’s transformation.
“The Equity Leaders Program is both an investment in Africa’s future innovators and a catalyst for the continent’s transformation. As you embark on your global education, remember that your unique perspectives and skills are vital to unlocking Africa’s vast potential. Return with a spirit of innovation, a commitment to building a more prosperous and equitable Africa, and the knowledge, skills, and networks to drive economic growth, promote social progress, and build a brighter future for generations to come,” he added.
Garvin Alimu, an ELP Scholar from Uganda joining Harvard University, USA sharing his testimonial during the event.
Garvin Alimu, an ELP Scholar from Uganda joining Harvard University, USA, to study Engineering, noted, “The journey to realising my dream has been filled with risks, sacrifices, and challenges that at times felt insurmountable. I started my education in a little-known school in Nansana, but worked hard and joined King’s College Budo, where I scored 20 points. But excelling in Uganda is one thing, and sitting for a USA essay exam is another task altogether. Equity bank staff had to prepare me for 4 straight months, teaching me how to write essays, present myself before a panel. I sat for the SAT four times. Through it all, the resilience and unity fostered within the Equity Leaders Program kept me focused and determined. This opportunity is not just for me, it’s for the collective good of our communities, to inspire others and pave the way for future generations. We are, indeed, the captains of our souls.” Alimu is an alumnus of King’s College Budo who scored 20 points in the 2023 UNEB exams.
Claire Nsaba, an ELP Scholar joining New York University, Abu Dubai campus sharing her story and journey with Equity Bank Uganda
Claire Nsaba, an ELP Scholar joining New York University, Abu Dhabi campus to study Environmental Engineering, said, “When I received the Scholarship, I saw hope for my future and my family’s. The journey hasn’t been easy; facing rejections from some universities and missing other opportunities was disheartening. But through mentorship and support from Equity, I learned that rejection doesn’t mean you’re not good enough; it can be life redirecting you to something better. Applying to New York University was my last attempt, and it worked. Now, I’m pursuing my passion for a unique kind of engineering, proof that persistence and faith can open doors you never imagined.” Claire Nsaba hails from Kisoro District. She is an alumnus of Mary Hill High School who scored 20 points in the 2023 UNEB exams.
While advising the scholars, Dr. Mwangi remarked, “As you step into this new chapter, see your time abroad as more than just an academic pursuit; it is a profound global opportunity for personal growth. Step out of your comfort zone, immerse yourself in new cultures, and challenge your perspectives. Let accountability and integrity be your compass, guiding your decisions and shaping your legacy. Remember, you are not just students; you are Equity Global Scholars, carrying with you the hopes of your families, communities, and country. Use your skills, knowledge, and global exposure to become solution-oriented leaders, bridge cultures, and inspire others to dream bigger. Your success will light the way for many who will follow.”
The Equity Leaders Program (ELP) is an initiative of the Equity Group Foundation, established in 1998 to cultivate a new generation of future leaders. By identifying and nurturing top-performing students nationally from within Equity Group’s subsidiaries, ELP has become a catalyst for transformative change.
The Program was launched in Uganda in 2022 and has since admitted 419 scholars, with 13 currently studying in various Global universities in the USA, Russia, Germany and Mauritius, while others are studying at local universities in Uganda.
This rigorous program is designed to equip young minds with the leadership skills, knowledge, and networks essential to drive sustainable economic growth and social progress across the continent. Through a holistic approach that encompasses academic excellence, character development, and practical experience, ELP aims to foster a community of interconnected leaders poised to tackle Africa’s most pressing challenges.
Meanwhile, the Equity Leaders Program was founded in 1998 and has scaled up over time to benefit 23,825 university scholars. The paid internship component of the Equity Leaders Program admits the top performing boys and girls in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (K.C.S.E.) exams from each sub-county in Kenya where Equity Bank has a branc,h as well as Wings to Fly graduates who score a minimum grade of A-.
The program aims at empowering young academically gifted scholars by supporting their access to education in public universities in Kenya and around the globe, as well as equipping them with leadership skills.
The leadership development model seeks to develop scholars in four program areas: personal and professional development; global exposure; creativity & innovation; and community engagement. Scholars in the paid internship program have an opportunity to join the College Counselling Program to receive coaching and mentorship on how to apply to and secure admission in leading global institutions.
For those who study locally, they join ELP University Chapters that provide them an opportunity to continue being in a network and further hone their leadership and personal development. They continue to serve as mentors to their younger ‘siblings’ in the Wings to Fly program in secondary schools
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