Equity Bank Uganda has officially commissioned 100 outstanding students as part of the fourth cohort of the Equity Leaders Program (ELP), joining 319 scholars already enrolled in the initiative. These scholars were selected based on their exceptional performance in the Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) examinations.
The Equity Leaders Program, a flagship initiative under the Education and Leadership Development pillar of the Equity Group Foundation, operates across Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Its core mission is to empower high-achieving, academically gifted youth through mentorship, leadership training, and exposure to global opportunities.
Combining academic excellence with character building, practical experience, and professional guidance, the ELP is designed to equip scholars with the skills and mindset needed to tackle Africa’s most pressing challenges and lead transformative change in their communities.
Each selected scholar benefits from a well-rounded support system that includes a fully paid internship at Equity Bank, ongoing mentorship, coaching, and assistance in pursuing higher education both locally and internationally.
During the commissioning ceremony, Equity Bank Uganda Managing Director, Gift Shoko, lauded the program’s continued impact in nurturing future leaders.
“Through the Equity Leaders Program, we are exposing young minds to the corporate world and preparing them to drive socio-economic transformation in Uganda and beyond,” he said. “The program instills critical thinking, business acumen, leadership, and life skills, ultimately transforming not just individuals, but communities as well.”
Dr. Joanne Korir, Director of Operations at Equity Group Foundation, delivered remarks on behalf of Executive Chairman Dr. James Mwangi, celebrating the new cohort.
“Today, we proudly welcome a new group of talented and driven scholars into the Equity Leaders Program. These individuals embody a vision of leadership rooted in integrity, innovation, and service,” she said. “We remain committed to bridging opportunity gaps and nurturing talent that will help shape Africa’s future.”
Equity Group Foundation Board Director, Sam Bwaya, also commended the scholars for completing a rigorous one-week induction and urged them to lead with selflessness and a strong sense of community service.
“The commissioning of this cohort marks another significant step toward our goal of empowering the next generation of African leaders,” Bwaya said.
The Equity Leaders Program continues to yield impressive results. In January 2025, 29 scholars from the first cohort graduated in various disciplines, with several securing employment at Equity Bank, while others ventured into different career paths.
To date, 970 ELP scholars have received full scholarships to attend prestigious institutions around the world. These include 233 universities across 37 countries, with 204 students admitted to Ivy League schools and other globally recognized institutions.
As part of the program, scholars undertake a 3–6 month paid internship at Equity Bank, receiving a monthly stipend while gaining hands-on experience across different departments. Mentorship and coaching continue throughout their university journey, ensuring their holistic development.
Additionally, scholars participate in a rigorous three-month college counselling program where they receive expert guidance on essay writing, university selection, and standardized test preparation. The current cohort will soon begin their studies at top universities both within Uganda and abroad.
