Equity Leadership Program secures global scholarships for over 128 East African scholars  

Through the Equity Leadership and initiative by Equity Group Foundation, over 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).

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, on 13th August 2025, 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 said  

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. 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 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,

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.