128 Equity Leadership Program Scholars Earn Admission to Prestigious Global Universities

Equity Group Foundation (EGF) has announced that 128 exceptional students from its Equity Leadership Program (ELP) have secured fully funded scholarships to study at 62 renowned universities across 19 countries. The scholars, drawn from Kenya (87), Rwanda (33), Uganda (4), and the Democratic Republic of Congo (4), will be pursuing undergraduate studies worth a combined Ksh 2.79 billion (USD 21.6 million) over four years. Each student will also receive an airlift allowance of up to Ksh 200,000 to help them settle into their new academic environments abroad.

Shaping Africa’s Future Leaders

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, EGF Executive Chairman Dr. James Mwangi praised the students for their resilience and urged them to use their global education to transform Africa. “The Equity Leaders Program is an investment in Africa’s future innovators,” he said. “As you gain skills and exposure, return ready to fuel economic growth, inspire social progress, and contribute to building a more prosperous and equitable continent.” This year’s cohort includes 16 scholars joining Ivy League universities—Harvard University (4), Princeton University (8), Columbia University (1), and the University of Pennsylvania (3).

Inspiring Ugandan Stories

Among the Ugandan recipients is Garvin Alimu, heading to Harvard University to study Engineering. He described his path as one of “risks, sacrifices, and challenges,” noting the rigorous preparation he underwent, from mastering essay writing to sitting the SAT four times. “This opportunity isn’t just for me,” Alimu said. “It’s for my community, to inspire and pave the way for others.” Claire Nsaba, admitted to New York University’s Abu Dhabi campus for Environmental Engineering, shared how perseverance paid off after multiple rejections. “Rejection doesn’t mean you’re not good enough,” she reflected. “Sometimes it’s life redirecting you to something better. NYU was my last attempt—and it worked.”

A Growing Impact

Since its launch in 1998, the ELP has supported over 1,098 students in securing fully funded international scholarships. In Uganda, where the program began in 2022, 419 scholars have joined, with several now studying in the USA, Russia, Germany, and Mauritius. The initiative blends academic excellence, leadership training, and hands-on experience, aiming to develop a new generation of leaders capable of driving sustainable economic and social change.

Dr. Mwangi closed with a challenge to the scholars: “You are not just students—you are Equity Global Scholars carrying the hopes of your communities. Use your knowledge to be solution-oriented leaders who bridge cultures and inspire others to dream bigger.”