Equity Bank, through the Equity Group Foundation (EGF), has been instrumental in promoting equitable access to education in Kenya. Recognizing that education transforms lives only when access is equitable, Equity Bank has implemented two flagship scholarship programs: the Wings to Fly and Elimu Scholarship Programs.
Wings to Fly Scholarship Program
Launched in 2010, the Wings to Fly program is a collaborative initiative between Equity Group Foundation and the Mastercard Foundation, with support from partners like the German Government through KfW, USAID, and UKAID. The program targets academically gifted students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds across all 47 counties in Kenya.
Key Features:
Comprehensive Support: Covers tuition fees, accommodation, books, uniforms, shopping, pocket money, and transport for the entire four years of secondary education.
Mentorship and Leadership Training: Scholars receive guidance to develop academic excellence, value-centered living, transformative leadership, and a culture of giving back.
Community-Based Selection: Beneficiaries are selected by Community Scholarship Selection Boards (CSSBs), comprising local leaders and education officials, ensuring transparency and fairness.
Impact:
As of 2025, over 60,009 scholars have benefited from the program.
The program boasts a 97% secondary school completion rate, with 82% of graduates attaining university entry grades.
Many alumni have progressed to the Equity Leaders Program (ELP), with some securing fully funded scholarships at prestigious global universities, including Ivy League institutions.
Elimu Scholarship Program
The Elimu Scholarship Program is a government initiative funded by the Ministry of Education with support from the World Bank, implemented by Equity Group Foundation. It aims to support students from vulnerable and marginalized communities, particularly those in informal settlements and underserved sub-counties.
Key Features:
Targeted Support: Focuses on students who scored a minimum of 280 marks in KCPE from 110 targeted sub-counties and 15 urban centers with informal settlements.
Holistic Coverage: Provides full tuition fees, uniforms, learning materials, transport, and mentorship throughout secondary education.
Rigorous Selection Process: Applications are reviewed by Community Scholarship Advisory Committees (CSACs), ensuring that only the most deserving students are selected.
Impact:
By 2022, 9,000 Elimu scholars were selected to join Form One, bringing the total scholarships offered through Equity to 10,000 in that year alone.
The program complements the government’s efforts to achieve a 100% transition rate from primary to secondary education.
Equity Leaders Program (ELP)
Graduates from both scholarship programs have the opportunity to join the Equity Leaders Program, which offers:
Internships: Paid internships at Equity Bank branches, providing practical work experience.
Global Exposure: Support to secure admissions and scholarships to leading global universities.
Entrepreneurship Support: Assistance in setting up and growing businesses, fostering innovation and economic growth.
Conclusion
Equity Bank’s scholarship programs have significantly contributed to transforming the lives of thousands of Kenyan students. By addressing financial barriers to education, providing comprehensive support, and fostering leadership and entrepreneurship, Equity Bank exemplifies how financial institutions can play a pivotal role in societal development.
For more information or to apply for these scholarships, visit the Equity Group Foundation website or contact your nearest Equity Bank branch.
Equity Bank’s Commitment to Equitable Education: The Elimu and Wings to Fly Scholarship Programs.
