Annual Congress Equips Students with Leadership, Education, and Empowerment Skills
Nairobi, April 25th, 2024 – In an annual endeavor to foster leadership, education, and empowerment among young scholars, the Equity Group Foundation (EGF) recently concluded its 15th Education and Leadership Congress in Nairobi County. The event, held during the April school holiday break, saw the participation of a staggering 3,307 scholars from the Nairobi region, including those from marginalized backgrounds and refugee camps.
Under the theme “Educate, Empower, Lead: The Triad to Success,” the Congress spanned three days and aimed to provide scholars with invaluable insights and skills necessary for their personal and academic growth. Supported by partners such as the Mastercard Foundation, Ministry of Education, the World Bank, and the German Government through KfW, the initiative underscored the collaborative effort towards nurturing future leaders.
The gathering served as a platform for scholars to engage with various stakeholders, including Equity Group Foundation and Equity Bank staff, Ministry of Education officials, representatives from UNHCR and Department of Refugee Services, captains of industry, academia, and teachers from Kenya and beyond. With a focus on academic excellence, value-centered living, transformative leadership, societal contribution, and gender sensitization, the Congress aimed to instill a holistic approach to education and personal development.
Noteworthy is the comprehensive scholarship program, Wings to Fly, and the Elimu Scholarship Program, which have provided educational opportunities to over 60,000 scholars across Kenya. These initiatives not only cover tuition fees but also offer mentorship and coaching to equip students with essential life skills.
Addressing the scholars, notable figures like Florence Ngangari, the Principal of Pangani Girls School, and Julia Komunga, Starehe Subcounty Director of Education, emphasized the transformative impact of mentorship programs in shaping students’ attitudes and skills.
Samuel Kirubi, Equity Group Chief Operating Officer, highlighted the importance of active decision-making and resilience in shaping one’s destiny. He commended the scholars for their achievements despite challenges, urging them to remain focused and seize opportunities available to them.
The success stories from the Equity Group Foundation’s initiatives are evident, with a remarkable 97% of students completing secondary school. Moreover, the Foundation has facilitated internships for over 8,000 students and supported 914 scholars to access leading global universities on full scholarships.
The holistic approach of the program underscores its uniqueness, as it not only focuses on academic excellence but also emphasizes the importance of giving back to the community.
As the Congress concluded, it left a lasting impact on the scholars, equipping them with the tools and inspiration needed to navigate their academic journey and contribute meaningfully to society. The Equity Group Foundation remains committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders, one scholar at a time.