Equity-Officials-with-the-5th-Cohort-of-ELP-at-the-Induction-Ceremony
A total of 100 top-performing students from Uganda have embarked on a new journey in leadership, mentorship, and career development after joining the Equity Leaders Program (ELP), an initiative of the Equity Group Foundation aimed at nurturing Africa’s next generation of leaders. The program was officially launched today, May 4, 2026, at Africa Bible University in Lubowa.
Operating across Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, the program selects the best-performing students in national secondary school examinations from each district. It supports them through a structured model focusing on mentorship, career guidance, college counseling, and access to global university opportunities.
Scholars enrolled in the program will also benefit from three to six months of paid internship experience at Equity Bank, providing early exposure to the professional environment while building practical and leadership skills.
Speaking to the newly admitted scholars in Kampala, Equity Bank Uganda Managing Director, Gift Shoko, described the opportunity as both an honor and a responsibility. He noted that selection into the program is highly competitive and reflects the scholars’ exceptional performance.
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He emphasized that the program is designed to develop leaders not only for Uganda but for Africa and the global stage. Shoko encouraged the students to recognize their potential, noting that among them could be future leaders and change-makers capable of transforming communities and nations.
Since its inception in 1998, the Equity Leaders Program has grown into one of Africa’s most competitive leadership and education initiatives. Over 10,500 scholars have benefited from mentorship, internships, and university placement support, with many gaining admission to top global institutions in Europe, North America, and Asia.
So far, 1,115 students have secured fully funded scholarships to leading universities, including Ivy League institutions such as Columbia University, Harvard University, Princeton University, and the University of Pennsylvania.
The Equity Group Foundation continues to invest in human capital as a driver of long-term economic and social transformation through education.
Shoko also encouraged the scholars to embrace uncertainty as part of their personal growth, reminding them that it is normal not to have everything figured out at their stage in life. He urged them to use the program as a platform for self-discovery and purpose.
He further challenged the students to stay disciplined, focused, and committed to contributing meaningfully to Uganda’s development.
As Uganda places increasing emphasis on youth empowerment and skills development, initiatives like the Equity Leaders Program are seen as critical investments in the country’s future leadership and competitiveness.
The new cohort now joins a growing network of Equity scholars across Africa and beyond. With academic success already achieved, their next challenge will be to translate their knowledge into leadership, innovation, and real impact.
Concluding his remarks, Shoko encouraged the students to aim high, reminding them that even ambitious goals can lead to great achievements.
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