128 Equity Leadership Programme scholars have secured admission and scholarships to join 63 global universities located in 20 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 Programme in four countries – Kenya (87), Rwanda (33), Uganda (4) and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) (4).
The scholars have secured scholarships valued at KSh2,791,962,093 (USD 21,643,117) for the 4-year duration of their undergraduate studies, and each scholar will receive an airlift token of up to KSh200,000 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 year’s 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 Programme 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 Programme 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.
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Claire Nsaba, an ELP scholar from Uganda, joining New York University Abu Dhabi to study Environmental Engineering, said, “I’ve always been ambitious and full of dreams. The Equity Leaders Programme gave me the mentorship and support I needed to turn those dreams into a clear path. After facing several rejections, applying to NYU was my final try, and it worked. It’s one of the best feelings of my life. I’m passionate about providing clean water to underserved communities, especially in hard-to-reach places like my home district of Kisoro. I believe the technical training at NYU will equip me to design sustainable solutions and make a lasting impact.” Claire is an alumna of Maryhill High School who scored 20 points in the 2023 Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) exams.
Presley Chomba, an ELP Scholar from Kenya, joining Harvard University, USA, to study Renewable Energy Engineering, noted, “The journey to realizing my dream has been filled with risks, sacrifices, and challenges that at times felt insurmountable. I sat for the SAT four times, funding my preparation with over Kshs. 60,000 of savings from my work as a teller at Equity Bank’s Westlands Supreme Branch. 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.” Presley is an alumnus of Strathmore School who scored an A of 84 points in the 2023 K.C.S.E exams.
Sharon Nyambura Wanjiku, a former Elimu scholar and an ELP Scholar joining Matej Bel University, Slovakia, to study Nursing, said, “When I received the Elimu Scholarship in 2019, 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 for the Slovak Government Scholarship was my last attempt, and it worked. Now, I’m pursuing my passion for care and healing, proof that persistence and faith can open doors you never imagined.” Sharon is an alumna of Kahuhia Girls High School who scored an A– of 78 points in the 2023 K.C.S.E exams.
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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 Leadership Programme (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.
This rigorous programme 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.
By Felix Njenga
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