Equity Bank Uganda has commissioned 100 outstanding students into the fifth cohort of the Equity Leaders Program (ELP), bringing the total number of scholars supported by the programme to 512 since its launch in Uganda in 2022.
The newly commissioned scholars were selected for their exceptional performance in the Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) examinations and will now benefit from mentorship, leadership training, internships and career guidance aimed at preparing them for future leadership roles.
During the event, the bank also celebrated 81 students from the pioneer 2022 cohort who have successfully completed university studies in courses such as Engineering, Statistics, Law and other professional fields.
Speaking at the ceremony, Equity Bank Uganda Managing Director Gift Shoko said the programme is designed to prepare young people to become responsible leaders and innovators who can contribute to Uganda’s development.
“Through the Equity Leaders Program, we are not only supporting academic excellence but also nurturing leaders who will drive innovation, integrity, and sustainable growth for Uganda,” said Gift Shoko.
He urged the scholars to intentionally shape their futures through discipline, hard work and wise decision-making as they transition into professional life.
The Equity Leaders Program operates under the Equity Group Foundation and supports academically talented students through leadership development, mentorship, internships and university counselling.
Dr Joanne Korir, Director of Operations at Equity Group Foundation, said the programme continues to create opportunities for young Ugandans to develop skills needed to transform communities and economies.
“This program equips scholars with critical thinking, business acumen, leadership, and life skills, transforming both individuals and communities,” she said.
She added that personal planning, innovation, communication skills and emotional intelligence are critical for career growth and effective leadership.
Catherine Psomgen said the programme focuses on developing transformative leaders through mentorship and practical exposure beyond the classroom.
“This mentorship journey is intended to shape students into transformative leaders,” she said.
She added that scholars receive support in global university applications and career development.
Some of the students who completed the programme shared how it had changed their lives.
“The Equity Leaders Program has been life changing. Beyond financial support, it gave me mentorship, confidence and a network of peers who inspire me every day. I am proud to be part of a community that is committed to giving back and shaping Uganda’s future,” said graduate Victor Nuwaga.
Another scholar, Christabel Nabukenya Babirye, encouraged fellow students to use available opportunities to positively impact society.
“Every student in this room has potential,” she emphasized.
The Guest of Honour, Dr Patrick Muinda, commended Equity Bank Uganda for investing in young people and promoting innovation across different sectors.
He encouraged scholars to use education as a tool for serving communities and creating meaningful change.
Equity Group Foundation Board Director Sam Bwaya praised the students for completing their induction training and challenged them to uphold integrity, discipline and selflessness.
“The ELP scholars exemplify our commitment to driving socio-economic growth across Africa. Today’s commissioning ceremony marks a moment of pride not only for our scholars but for Equity Bank Uganda and the Equity Group Foundation’s vision of empowering young leaders to create meaningful change within their communities,” Bwaya said.
Speaking on behalf of Equity Group CEO Dr James Mwangi, Equity Uganda Bank Non-Executive Board Director Henry Rugaamba said talent exists in every community and that access to opportunities allows young people to realise their full potential.
“Excellence is not determined by geography, background, or circumstance, it exists in every community,” he noted.
The Equity Leaders Program is currently implemented in Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda and DR Congo. Scholars in the programme undertake paid internships lasting between three and six months at Equity Bank, where they gain practical workplace experience and receive monthly stipends.
Participants also receive university counselling, mentorship and coaching throughout their studies. Some past scholars have secured fully funded scholarships to international institutions including Harvard University, New York University, University of Waterloo, University of Delhi and Moscow Aviation Institute.
