Some 113 Equity Leadership Program scholars have secured admission and scholarships to join 71 universities in 22 countries.
Equity Group Foundation (EGF) Executive Chairman James Mwangi commissioned the airlift of the scholars drawn from the Equity Leaders Program in four countries – Kenya (82), Rwanda (21), Uganda (8) and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) (2).
The scholars have secured scholarships valued at Sh2.8 billion ($21,497,646) for the four-year duration of their undergraduate studies, and each scholar will receive an airlift token of Sh200,000 to support their transition into global universities.
Under EGF’s Education and Leadership Development pillar, the scholars who were also on-boarded into Equity Bank’s paid-internship program, benefited from a comprehensive two-month College Counselling program where scholars received expert guidance on essay writing, university selection, and exam preparation. Additionally, a week-long bootcamp equipped them with the necessary skills to navigate the transition to university life and thrive as global scholars.
Speaking at a dedication and flag-off ceremony to celebrate the scholars before they travel outside the country for their studies, Mwangi challenged the students to be agents of change, leveraging the knowledge, values and skills they will acquire to address Africa’s development challenges.
“As you embark on this journey, remember to stay adaptable and embrace every challenge with integrity. Embrace the journey ahead and be open to different cultures and perspectives, and let your unique qualities shine. Build strong networks and innovate to create lasting solutions for your community and invest in your ability to overcome challenges and find new approaches as this will be your greatest asset,” he said.
The scholars will be joining universities in different continents across the globe including North America, South America, Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Mwangi emphasized the role of the scholars in driving Africa’s socio-economic growth, particularly within the framework of the Africa Recovery and Resilience Plan (ARRP) a multi-pronged, private sector driven and holistic solution to achieve social and economic transformation of Africa championed by the Equity Group.
“Your contributions will be instrumental in creating a more prosperous future for our continent.”
Giving further advice to the scholars, Mwangi said the most effective way of giving back is through mentorship.
“As you step into the world, understand that your true wealth lies in the positive impact you create. Your journey is not just about personal success; it’s about illuminating the paths for others. Build strong connections, share your knowledge, and give back to your community, letting your experiences abroad broaden their horizons and also inspire those behind you to create lasting change. Remember, you carry the hopes and dreams of your family and country,” he said.
Speaking during the Airlift Ceremony, Garang Makech Kuol an ELP Scholar joining Bowdoin University, USA, to study Computer Science noted: “The support network I found within Equity during my ELP journey has been instrumental to my success. There were times when doubt crept in, but the unwavering belief of the people around me pushed me forward.”
Garang grew up at the Kakuma Refugee Camp. He later joined Baringo Boys High School where he scored an A of 82 points.
Evelyn Wahu Gathara an ELP Scholar, joining Harvard University, USA, to study Computer Science said: “In 2018, I sat for my KCPE, emerging as the top girl in my sub-county, and joined Alliance Girls High School. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I wondered why Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson, and AstraZeneca weren’t producing vaccines faster. That’s when my dream was born: “I have to work at Pfizer.” I also asked, “Why can’t we develop vaccines in Kenya?” I knew I had to make a change.”
Gathara was the best Girl in the Country in the 2022 KCSE exams.
A total of 970 students have received admission to prestigious universities on fully funded scholarships. Thirteen will be joining Ivy League Universities including Brown University (one), Columbia University (one), Harvard University (four), Princeton University (two), Cornell (one) and University of Pennsylvania (four).
