The initial group of graduates from the Equity Leaders Program (ELP) expressed gratitude to Equity Bank Uganda during a ceremony at Church House in Kampala on January 22, 2025. This program, which began in 2022, aims to identify and cultivate some of the nation’s top-performing students by recognizing them and providing leadership training along with paid internships at Equity Bank.
This initiative selects outstanding performers from the UACE level across the various districts where Equity Bank operates. While they pursue their university studies, Equity Bank supports them in developing and enhancing their leadership abilities.
By the time these students graduate, they have also acquired various transformative skills essential for the next stages of their lives and careers. These skills not only enhance their careers but also positively impact their respective communities.
"My name is Atuyambe Shimon ELP scholar cohort 1. I graduated from Kyambogo University with a first class in bachelor's degree in guidance and counseling. It's such an honor to stand before you as we together celebrate this milestone.
Looking back I remember the day we joined… pic.twitter.com/MGQsu01mXo
— Equity Bank Uganda (@UgEquityBank) January 22, 2025
Elizabeth Wahito, the Acting Head of Public Sector and Social Investment at Equity Bank, presided over the event, having played a crucial role since the program’s inception. Wahito indicated that these graduates have made significant progress and their commitment will be pivotal for Uganda’s development.
During the same event, Kevin Nandase, the Head of Human Resources at Equity Bank, commended the graduates for setting a precedent for future learners participating in this program.
“You have motivated others to embark on this journey and we take pride in your accomplishments. You chose to travel this path with us, and today, we honor not just your achievements as students but as future colleagues.”
Taking the podium to give opening remarks is our Head of Human Resources, Kevin Nandase Wagubi who shared,
"Equity Bank has always been upheld to the highest standards, and today, we are here to celebrate you. You’ve inspired others to join and learn from your journey, and we… pic.twitter.com/jJAzf1dmRl
— Equity Bank Uganda (@UgEquityBank) January 22, 2025
Moreover, Godfrey Kamau, the Equity Group Director of Operations, addressed the graduates and praised their determination and persistence demonstrated through this program. He acknowledged their capacity for remaining focused and not being distracted by various challenges. Their ability to keep their objectives in sight was paramount. He noted that their achievements represent a success for both the universities and Equity Bank.
Also speaking to our scholars today is Godfrey Kamau, the Equity Group Director – Operations,
"Graduates of the Equity Leaders Program, we thank you for holding your heads high and demonstrating the principles of success that have brought you this far. Today, you’ve shown… pic.twitter.com/EMGERBFrFh
— Equity Bank Uganda (@UgEquityBank) January 22, 2025
“You have exhibited responsibility, resilience, and proactivity—traits that characterize exceptional leaders,” he stated. Kamau recognized their dedication to staying on course and overcoming obstacles, as well as their positive contributions to their universities and to Equity Bank’s success.
Gift Shoko, the newly appointed MD of Equity Bank, expressed gratitude to the graduates for upholding the program’s standards, referring to them as the initial successes of this initiative. He encouraged them to persevere in their ambitions and maintain their drive toward excellence. Shoko also extended his thanks to James Mwangi, the Group CEO, for conceptualizing this exceptional initiative and ensuring its success.
"To our scholars, you are our "first fruits" who have set the standard and paved the way for future cohorts. I urge you to continue improving, live exemplary lives, and embrace your roles as transformative agents in your communities. I also want to express gratitude to the… pic.twitter.com/UnPMLHEPbc
— Equity Bank Uganda (@UgEquityBank) January 22, 2025
As a token of recognition, Equity Bank presented these graduates with certificates that acknowledged their participation in the program and their accomplishments. They have fulfilled their role in inspiring the next group of learners in this initiative and are expected to utilize the skills they have gained as they embark on the next phase of their careers.
