The Equity Leaders Program (ELP) has announced that 113 scholars have secured admission to 71 prestigious universities around the world for the 2023/2024 academic year. These scholars hail from Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), marking a significant achievement in the Equity Group Foundation (EGF)’s ongoing mission to foster leadership and drive socio-economic transformation across Africa.
A Historic Achievement: 113 Scholars Join Global Universities
The 2023/2024 application cycle has proven to be a landmark year for the Equity Leaders Program, with 113 scholars receiving full scholarships valued at approximately KES 2.8 billion (USD 21.5 million) for their four-year undergraduate studies. This substantial financial support underscores Equity Group Foundation’s commitment to equipping the next generation of African leaders with the education and skills needed to address the continent’s most pressing challenges.
The scholars have gained admission to some of the most prestigious universities across five continents – North America, South America, Europe, Asia, and Africa – reflecting the global recognition of African talent fostered by the Equity Leaders Program. With this year’s intake, the total number of Equity Leaders Program scholars who have received global university admissions and scholarships now stands at 970.
Global Reach and Prestigious Institutions
The 113 scholars will be joining universities in 22 countries, including leading institutions such as Harvard University, Princeton University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and the University of British Columbia. The scholars’ distribution across continents showcases the program’s broad reach and the diverse opportunities available to its participants.
Key Institutions and Scholar Distribution:
- North America (44 scholars): Includes admissions to Harvard University, Princeton University, Cornell University, and the University of Pennsylvania, among others.
- Europe (25 scholars): Notable institutions include Sciences Po University (France), Rhein Waal University (Germany), and London School of Economics (UK).
- Asia (27 scholars): Scholars will attend institutions such as Duke Kunshan University (China), American University of Beirut (Lebanon), and Kyung Dong University (South Korea).
- Africa (16 scholars): Scholars will study at Ashesi University (Ghana), USIU-Africa (United States International University – Africa, Kenya), and the University of Global Health Equity (Rwanda), among others.
- South America (1 scholar): Admission to Earth University (Costa Rica).
The scholars’ global distribution highlights Equity Group Foundation’s strategic focus on providing its scholars with diverse educational experiences that will prepare them to lead in various sectors across the globe.
Comprehensive Scholar Support and Preparation
The journey to these prestigious institutions began long before the admissions letters were received. Equity Group Foundation’s holistic approach to scholar development includes rigorous academic preparation and personal development programs designed to ensure that Equity Leaders Program scholars not only gain admission to top universities but also thrive once they arrive.
College Counseling Program: Each scholar participated in a comprehensive two-month College Counseling program, which provided expert guidance on essay writing, university selection, and exam preparation. This program is a cornerstone of the Equity Leaders Program, ensuring that scholars are well-prepared to compete for and secure placements in the world’s leading universities.
Bootcamp Training: In addition to academic preparation, the scholars attended a week-long bootcamp focused on leadership development, cultural adaptation, and life skills. This bootcamp is designed to equip scholars with the tools they need to navigate the complexities of university life abroad, embrace diverse cultures, and excel as global citizens.
Financial Support: To further support the scholars’ transitions to their new academic environments, each received an airlift token of KES 200,000. This financial support is crucial in helping scholars settle into their new homes, covering essential costs such as travel, accommodation, and initial living expenses.
Dr. James Mwangi’s Visionary Leadership
At the core of the Equity Leaders Program is the visionary leadership of Dr. James Mwangi, Executive Chairman of Equity Group Foundation. His dedication to transforming Africa through education is evident in his continued support of the Equity Leaders Program and its scholars. Speaking at the dedication and flag-off ceremony for the 113 scholars, Dr. Mwangi urged the students to be agents of change, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, integrity, and innovation in their academic and professional journeys.
Dr. Mwangi also highlighted the critical role these scholars will play in the Africa Recovery and Resilience Plan (ARRP), a multi-faceted strategy aimed at accelerating Africa’s socio-economic transformation. He encouraged the scholars to leverage their education to drive trade and investment, expand markets, and foster technology adoption across the continent. By doing so, these scholars can contribute to creating a more prosperous future for Africa.
Scholar Stories: From Adversity to Academic Excellence
The transformative impact of the Equity Leaders Program is best illustrated through the personal stories of its scholars. These narratives of resilience, ambition, and success underscore the program’s ability to change lives and empower the next generation of African leaders.
Garang Makech Kuol: A refugee from the Kakuma Refugee Camp in Kenya, Garang’s journey to academic excellence is a testament to the power of perseverance and support. After scoring an impressive A grade at Baringo Boys High School, Garang earned a place at Bowdoin College in the USA to study Computer Science. Reflecting on his journey, Garang credits the unwavering support of the Equity team for helping him overcome the challenges of his background and secure a place at a world-class university.
Evelyn Wahu Gathara: A top-performing student in the 2022 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams, Evelyn emerged as the best girl in the country. Her passion for science and desire to make a difference in the world led her to dream of working at Pfizer, a dream she will pursue as she joins Harvard University to study Computer Science. Evelyn’s story is one of inspiration and determination, and she hopes to use her education to help develop vaccines in Kenya and address global health challenges.
The Equity Leaders Program: A Catalyst for Sustainable Development
The Equity Leaders Program is more than just an educational initiative; it is a movement that is reshaping the future of Africa by nurturing the continent’s brightest minds. Founded in 1998, the program has grown to benefit 23,825 university scholars, providing them with the tools, networks, and opportunities they need to succeed.
Four Key Pillars of the Equity Leaders Program:
- Personal and Professional Development: Scholars receive training in leadership skills, professional ethics, and personal growth, ensuring they are well-rounded individuals ready to lead.
- Global Exposure: By facilitating admissions to universities around the world, the Equity Leaders Program provides scholars with the global exposure needed to become influential leaders in an interconnected world.
- Creativity and Innovation: The program encourages scholars to think creatively and develop innovative solutions to the challenges facing Africa and the world.
- Community Engagement: Equity Leaders Program scholars are instilled with a sense of responsibility to give back to their communities. Many serve as mentors to younger students and participate in initiatives aimed at driving social change.
The Equity Leaders Program’s impact extends beyond the individual scholars; it creates a ripple effect that benefits entire communities. As these scholars return to their home countries, they bring with them not only knowledge and skills but also a commitment to making a difference.
The Broader Impact of the Equity Group Foundation
The Equity Leaders Program is just one of many initiatives under the Equity Group Foundation, which was established in 2008 as the corporate impact arm of Equity Group Holdings Plc. The Foundation’s mission is to champion the transformation of lives and livelihoods for 100 million people in Africa by 2030. This ambitious goal is being pursued through a variety of programs that leverage Equity Group’s infrastructure and partnerships to create shared value and prosperity.
Equity Group Foundation’s Areas of Focus:
- Education and Leadership Development: Through programs like the Equity Leaders Program, Equity Group Foundation is investing in the next generation of African leaders.
- Food and Agriculture: Equity Group Foundation supports initiatives that increase agricultural productivity and food security.
- Health: The Foundation works to improve access to healthcare and address public health challenges across the continent.
- Financial Inclusion and Enterprise Development: Equity Group Foundation empowers individuals and businesses to achieve financial independence and contribute to economic growth.
- Energy, Environment, and Climate Change: The Foundation promotes sustainable practices and technologies that protect the environment and mitigate climate change.
- Social Protection: Equity Group Foundation provides support to vulnerable populations, ensuring they have the resources and opportunities to thrive.
By addressing these critical areas, the Equity Group Foundation is playing a key role in driving sustainable development in Africa.
Conclusion: Empowering Africa’s Future
The Equity Leaders Program is a beacon of hope and opportunity for Africa’s brightest young minds. By providing these scholars with the education, skills, and networks they need to succeed, the Equity Leaders Program is helping to build a future where African leaders are at the forefront of global innovation and development.
As the 113 scholars embark on their academic journeys, they carry with them the hopes and dreams of their families, communities, and the continent. Their success will not only change their lives but will also contribute to the broader goal of transforming Africa into a hub of knowledge, innovation, and prosperity
For more information about the Equity Leaders Program and other initiatives by the Equity Group Foundation, visit Equity Group Foundation.
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