Over 5,000 Runners Turn Up for IUIU’s 5th Edition of Run for a Girl Child
- 29th September, 2026 4:53pm
Thousands of students, community members, and leaders turned up for the 5th Edition of Run for a Girl Child marathon held on 27th/09/2026 at females campus kabojja.
The initiative, championed by IUIU, has, over the past five years, grown into a movement focused on promoting education, healthcare, skills development, and confidence for the girl child.
This year’s run marked a significant milestone, demonstrating a sustained commitment to keeping the needs of the girl child at the forefront of public attention. The event brought together a diverse array of schools from across the country, including SMACK Kabojja Campus, Mbogo High School, Nabisunsa Girls School, Kibuli Secondary School, and Hamdam Islamic School Nakifuma, among others.
The presence of these institutions gave the event a vibrant youth dimension, with students actively participating in a campaign centered on creating better opportunities for their generation.
The event attracted high-profile support from political and academic leaders. Hon. Mawada Nkunyingi, who graced the event, praised the administration of IUIU and the students for working as a team to support girls. He contributed UGX 1,000,000 towards the cause.
Representing the Rector, Associate Prof. Ismail Gyagenda, the Vice Rector in charge of Academic Affairs, Dr. Jamil Sweranga, delivered a speech highlighting how the Run has elevated the university's profile. He emphasized the importance of charity and extended gratitude to the Speaker of Parliament, Right Honorable Jacobo Oboth Oboth, for his noble contribution. The Rector also lauded the Bank of Uganda for its thoughtful support, describing the institution as a champion of social corporate responsibility and praising its role in regulating other banks and leading by example. He acknowledged other recurring partners, including Tropical Bank, DFC, Cairo Bank, Centenary Bank, and Bank of Baroda.
The Chief Runner, Prime Minister Robina Nabbanja, was represented by the Member of Parliament for Maruzi North, Hon. Bernard Otim. In his remarks, Hon. Otim praised the Chairman of the Fifth Edition, Mr. Baligeya Afan Wakinyankali, and his committee for steering a successful event.
“IUIU is my home since I am an alumnus,” Hon. Otim said, before contributing UGX 1,000,000 towards the cause. He commended Dr. Madina for championing girl-child education and praised the leadership of Prof. Gyagenda for allowing such impactful events to take place. He called upon companies to continue supporting the initiative.
The organizers noted that the vision of the Run for a Girl Child goes beyond formal education. It seeks to address the multifaceted challenges girls face, including financial constraints, social circumstances, and health concerns.
“A girl who receives quality education, understands the importance of her health, develops practical skills, and believes in her abilities is better positioned to participate meaningfully in her community,” a statement from the organizers read.
The run served as a reminder that empowerment is not a single intervention but a continuous process requiring support from families, schools, communities, government, and the private sector.
As the runners crossed the finish line, the message remained clear: investing in the girl child is an investment in the future of the entire community. The 5th Edition will be remembered not only for the impressive turnout but for the collective spirit of thousands of Ugandans who showed that when society comes together, a powerful message of hope and opportunity can be created for the girl child.
