A group of 100 high-achieving students has converged at African Bible University in Lubowa for a week-long leadership and induction camp under the Equity Leaders Program (ELP) a transformative initiative by Equity Bank designed to mold future African leaders.
Now in its third year of implementation in Uganda, the program selects the highest-performing male and female student from each district hosting an Equity Bank branch, based on Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) results. These exceptional scholars, recognized for their academic excellence and leadership potential, are undergoing an intensive training program running from May 4 to May 10, 2025.
The week marks the beginning of a journey that blends leadership development, mentorship, and global exposure. Participants are receiving training in soft skills, ethical leadership, innovation, and independent thinking all aimed at preparing them to lead with integrity and impact.
At the opening ceremony, Equity Bank Uganda Managing Director Gift Shoko encouraged the students to pursue their goals with purpose and vision. He emphasized the bank’s core values integrity, teamwork, creativity, professionalism, and customer respect as key principles for responsible leadership.
“This initiative is about shaping visionary leaders who can transform Uganda, Africa, and the world. Leadership is tested in adversity, great leaders rise above,” Shoko noted.
Following the camp, scholars will engage in a paid internship program lasting between three to six months at Equity Bank branches. During this period, they will gain real-world work experience, mentorship, and receive a monthly stipend. In addition, they will benefit from a dedicated three-month College Counselling Program to help them apply for prestigious scholarships at top-tier global universities such as Harvard, Stanford, and Yale.
The program also strengthens regional unity by connecting participants with fellow scholars from Kenya, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo creating a dynamic pan-African network of young change agents.
Originally launched in Kenya in 1998, the Equity Leaders Program has since supported thousands of talented students across East and Central Africa, many of whom have gone on to study or work in top institutions around the globe.