One of the 128 Equity Leadership Program scholars pose with an award dummy cheque with a cross section of Equity Bank officials, during the award ceremony
HABARI DAILY I Kampala, Uganda I Four Ugandans are among the 128 Equity Leadership Program scholars who have secured admission and scholarships to join 62 global universities located in 19 countries around the world.
The scholars have secured scholarships valued at Ksh. 2,791,962,093 ($21,643,117) for the 4-year duration of their undergraduate studies. Each scholar will additionally receive an airlift token of up to Kshs. 200,000 to support their transition into the global universities.
Dr. James Mwangi, the Equity Group Foundation (EGF) executive chairman commissioned the airlift of the 128 scholars drawn from the Equity Leaders Program in four countries, including Kenya (87), Rwanda (33), Uganda (4) and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) (4).
“The Equity Leaders Program is both an investment in Africa’s future innovators and a catalyst for the continent’s transformation,” he said during the commissioning ceremony held recently.
He advised the scholars that as they embark on their global education, they should remember that their 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.
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).
Dr. Mwangi underscored the significance of the Equity Leaders Program in shaping the continent’s future. “Embrace your global academic journeys not only as a personal achievement, but also as a mission to contribute to Africa’s transformation.”
Testimonies
Garvin Alimu, an ELP Scholar from Uganda joining Harvard University, USA, to study Engineering, noted, “The journey to realizing 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,” he said.
He added that 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. 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 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,” she said in an interview.
She however pointed out that through mentorship, she learned that rejection doesn’t mean you’re not good enough; it can be life redirecting you to something better.
Claire Nsaba hails from Kisoro District, she is an alumnus of Mary Hill High School who scored 20 points in the 2023 UNEB exams.
Molding future leaders
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, German 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.
About the Author
