By Our Reporter
Equity Bank Uganda has celebrated the graduation of its first cohort of Equity Leaders Program (ELP) scholars, who have completed their 3-year University Bachelor’s degree programs.
Of the 122 young leaders commissioned during the program’s inaugural intake in January 2022, 29 scholars have graduated from their respective Universities in this maiden cohort, demonstrating the program’s focus on nurturing academic and leadership excellence.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony on behalf of Dr. James Mwangi, the Equity Group Foundation Executive Chairman, Gift Shoko, Managing Director of Equity Bank Uganda, commended the scholars for their dedication and lauded the transformative impact of the leadership training and mentorship program.
“The graduating scholars exemplify our commitment to driving socio-economic growth across Africa. Their university undergraduate graduation milestone 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,” he said.
He added, “Education is the key to social and economic transformation, and the Equity Leaders Program represents our determination to nurture resilient and visionary leaders. As we celebrate this maiden cohort, we look forward to seeing these scholars emerge as beacons of excellence, driving progress in Uganda and beyond.”
The Equity Leaders Program, under the Education and Leadership Development pillar of Equity Group Foundation, is committed to empowering academically gifted young scholars. The programme currently runs in Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, and the DRC. This rigorous program equips participants with leadership skills, mentorship, and professional networks to address Africa’s most pressing challenges. It blends academic excellence, character development, mentorship, and practical experience to cultivate a generation of future leaders.
As part of this first cohort, the scholars have gained valuable professional experience through internships with Equity Bank. Some have transitioned into exciting career paths, contributing to various industries and sectors. Others continue to engage with the Bank through mentorship initiatives and contract opportunities, demonstrating the program’s enduring value and the strong partnership between Equity Bank and its scholars.
Congratulating the scholars, Elizabeth Wahito, Acting Head of the Public Sector & Social Investment Unit at Equity Bank Uganda, reflected on the broader vision of the program: “Equity’s commitment goes beyond financial empowerment—it is about creating a lifelong network of peers for mentorship, inspiration, and shared opportunities. As we celebrate this maiden cohort, we are confident that they will carry the torch of leadership, breaking barriers, and contributing to Uganda’s and Africa’s prosperity. Congratulations to our graduates—the future is in your hands, and we believe it is brighter because of you.”
Since the inaugural intake in 2022, Equity Bank Uganda has commissioned two additional cohorts in 2023 and 2024, admitting 94 and 103 top-performing students respectively from 30 districts where the Bank has a branch presence. Plans are underway to induct a fourth cohort following the release of the 2024 Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) results.
As part of the program, scholars undergo a 3-6 month paid internship with Equity Bank, receiving a monthly stipend and gaining hands-on experience across various departments. Post-internship, mentorship and coaching continue throughout their university education to ensure a holistic development experience.