Overview:
The Equity Leaders Program commissions 128 scholars on their journey to top global universities on full scholarships, furthering the program's mission to transform Africa's future.
KAMPALA, Uganda — One hundred twenty-eight scholars from the Equity Leaders Program have been awarded full scholarships to 62 universities in 19 countries, with the total value of the scholarships exceeding Ksh. 2.79 billion (USD 21.6 million). The scholarships will cover the students’ four-year undergraduate studies.
The scholars, drawn from four African countries — Kenya (87), Rwanda (33), Uganda (4), and the Democratic Republic of Congo (4) — were commissioned on Wednesday by Equity Group Foundation Executive Chairman Dr. James Mwangi. Each student will receive up to Ksh. 200,000 to assist with their transition to their respective universities.
This year’s cohort brings the total number of students who have received fully funded scholarships to prestigious universities through the program to 1,098. Sixteen of the students will be attending Ivy League institutions, including Harvard (4), Princeton (8), Columbia University (1), and the University of Pennsylvania (3).
A Mission to Transform Africa
During the commissioning ceremony, Dr. Mwangi urged the scholars to view their global education as more than a personal achievement. “As you embark on your global education, remember that your unique perspectives and skills are vital to unlocking Africa’s vast potential,” he said. He encouraged them to return with a “spirit of innovation” and a commitment to building a more prosperous and equitable Africa.
Two of the scholars shared their personal journeys and experiences with the program.
Garvin Alimu, an engineering student from Uganda joining Harvard University, spoke about the challenges he faced, including taking the SAT four times. “Through it all, the resilience and unity fostered within the Equity Leaders Program kept me focused and determined,” Alimu said. “This opportunity is not just for me; it’s for the collective good of our communities.”
Claire Nsaba, from Kisoro District in Uganda, will study environmental engineering at New York University’s Abu Dhabi campus. She reflected on the rejections she experienced before her acceptance. “I learned that rejection doesn’t mean you’re not good enough; it can be life redirecting you to something better,” she said.
Established in 1998 by the Equity Group Foundation, the Equity Leaders Program (ELP) aims to nurture a new generation of leaders by supporting top-performing students. The program provides leadership skills, knowledge, and networks to drive economic and social progress.
Since its launch in Uganda in 2022, the program has admitted 419 scholars, with 13 currently studying at global universities and others attending local universities in Uganda.