Equity Group Foundation proudly announces that 121 scholars from the Equity Leaders Program (ELP) have secured admission to universities across 16 countries, including North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa, for the 2025/2026 academic year. These scholars have been awarded scholarship packages totaling Ksh3.02 billion.
The cohort consists of scholars from Kenya (86), Rwanda (29), Uganda (4), and the Democratic Republic of Congo (2), with admissions to 63 universities. Each scholar has received comprehensive financial support from their respective institutions.
The total value of the scholarships amounts to USD 23,422,515, equivalent to Ksh3,021,504,435, covering the entire duration of their undergraduate studies. The commissioning of these scholars took place on Friday at the Equity Centre in Upper Hill, Nairobi.
In addition, 44 ELP scholars have successfully completed interviews for government-sponsored overseas undergraduate scholarships and are currently awaiting final confirmations. This includes 23 candidates for the Türkiye Government Scholarship and 21 for the Romania Government Scholarship.
During the commissioning ceremony, Dr. James Mwangi, Executive Chairman of Equity Group Foundation and Managing Director and CEO of Equity Group, emphasized the program’s commitment to preparing African youth for leadership roles. He stated, “The Equity Leaders Program embodies our long-term belief in Africa’s potential. As you embark on your journey to global universities, remember you carry the dreams of your families and the expectations of our nations. Embrace learning boldly, lead with integrity, and return equipped with the knowledge, networks, and confidence to create solutions that enhance opportunities and promote prosperity across Africa.”
The ceremony also featured Ondrej Simek, Deputy Head of Delegation at the European Union Delegation to Kenya, who encouraged the scholars to embrace their unique journey. “You have earned your place through rigorous competition. Now, step confidently into your next chapter; work diligently, stay curious, and forge friendships across cultures. The opportunities before you are remarkable—seize every moment to grow, and return home as transformative leaders,” Simek urged.
Among this year’s scholars, 20 have gained admission to Ivy League universities, raising the total number of ELP scholars at Ivy League institutions to 240 since the program’s inception.
Notably, Ugandan scholar Aime Iradukunda, a standout from Royal Giant High School, achieved 20 points in the Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education and has been admitted to Harvard College to study Electrical Engineering and Economics. He expressed his gratitude for the support from Equity Bank Uganda and Equity Group, stating, “Receiving my acceptance letter from Harvard was surreal. This opportunity has changed my life, and I am deeply thankful for the belief in my potential.”
Kenyan scholar Grace Sang’, a former student of Alliance Girls High School who excelled in the 2025 KCSE examination, has secured a spot at New York University Abu Dhabi to study Computer Science. She shared, “Seeing the journeys of Equity Leaders Program alumni inspired me to aim high. The Equity College Counseling Program helped me recognize my worth, leading to my admission. I hope my story inspires other young people to pursue their dreams.”
David Kiiru Kimani, a member of the Equity Global Scholars Board and a Biology student at Williams College, urged the scholars to view themselves as part of a broader network of future leaders. “As you head to universities worldwide, remember you are not just students; you are joining a lifelong family of innovators and changemakers. The Equity Leaders Program is about cultivating values-driven leaders who will return to transform communities and address global challenges,” he said.
Brian Oweka Otieno, a fourth-year medical student at Selçuk University in Türkiye and leader of the 2026 Equity College Counseling Program Study Group, highlighted the importance of mentorship in accessing global scholarships. “My experience demonstrates that with the right mentorship and determination, global scholarships are within reach. Collaborate with peers, celebrate milestones, and own your talent—aim for the global stage; the world needs your impact,” he encouraged.
The admission breakdown reveals that North America leads with 52 scholars, including 47 at universities in the United States and five in Canada. Esteemed institutions include Princeton, Columbia, and Harvard, among others. Africa welcomed 34 admissions, while Asia accounted for 26, and Europe recorded nine.
Overall, this cohort comprises 55 female and 66 male scholars. During the commissioning ceremony, each scholar received an airlift token to assist with their travel and onboarding to their respective universities.
Since its inception, the Equity Leaders Program has supported 1,236 scholars in gaining admissions and scholarships to 247 universities across 40 countries on six continents. The program identifies high-performing students and offers mentorship, coaching, paid internships, and college counseling to facilitate their access to higher education opportunities.
Established in 1998, the ELP has benefited over 35,353 university scholars across the region. In Kenya, it selects top-performing students from areas where Equity operates, as well as beneficiaries of the Wings to Fly and Elimu scholarship programs who achieve at least an A- in KCSE examinations.
The program emphasizes personal and professional growth, global exposure, creativity, innovation, and community engagement, encouraging scholars to mentor younger students and contribute to community initiatives after graduation.
