Equity sends 121 scholars to top global universities on KSh3 billion scholarship
The Equity Group leadership led by Equity Group Foundation Executive Chairman, Dr. James Mwangi (centre) together with a section of the Equity Leaders Program (ELP) scholars who will be joining 63 global universities in 16 Countries
A total of 121 scholars under the Equity Leaders Program (ELP) have secured fully funded undergraduate scholarships to some of the world’s leading universities, with the awards valued at more than KSh3.02 billion, reinforcing Equity Group Foundation’s growing role in developing Africa’s future leaders.
The scholars, drawn from Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), will study in 63 universities across 16 countries in North America, Europe, Asia and Africa after successfully securing admissions during the 2025/2026 application cycle.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony at Equity Centre in Nairobi on Friday, August 7, 2026, Equity Group Foundation Executive Chairman and Equity Group Managing Director and CEO Dr James Mwangi said the programme is designed to equip young Africans with global knowledge and leadership skills before they return to drive transformation across the continent.
“The Equity Leaders Program represents our long-term commitment to Africa’s potential and a belief that the continent’s next chapter of growth will be shaped by well-prepared, values-led talent. As you leave for global universities, remember you are carrying the dreams of your families and the expectations of our nations,” Dr Mwangi said.
44 await government scholarships
Besides the 121 scholars already admitted, another 44 ELP scholars have completed interviews for government-sponsored overseas undergraduate scholarships and are awaiting final admission and scholarship confirmations.
The group includes 23 candidates interviewed for the Türkiye Government Scholarship and 21 for the Romania Government Scholarship, potentially expanding the number of beneficiaries studying abroad.
Deputy Head of Delegation at the European Union to Kenya Ondrej Simek challenged the scholars to maximise the opportunity by embracing new cultures and experiences.
“You have earned your place through an incredibly competitive process. Work hard, stay curious, push beyond your comfort zone, and when you return home, you will shine as the leaders who drive transformation,” Simek said.
Programme opens global doors
Kenya accounted for the largest share of beneficiaries with 86 scholars, followed by Rwanda (29), Uganda (4) and the DRC (2).
One of the beneficiaries, Aime Iradukunda from Uganda, secured admission to Harvard College to study Electrical Engineering and Economics after applying to 14 universities.
“I believed my chances of getting in were very slim. When the acceptance letter came, I was in complete disbelief. Equity believed in me and made it possible for me to pursue my dream,” he said.
The latest cohort further cements the Equity Leaders Program as one of Africa’s leading education and leadership initiatives, connecting top-performing students with world-class universities while nurturing the next generation of professionals expected to contribute to the continent’s economic and social development.
