“We Run, She Learns”: IUIU run raises proceeds for girl child education

The fourth edition of the Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) Run for Girl Child education run was successfully held at the females’ Campus in Kabojja on 29^th June 2025.

Over 7000 participants and supporters graced this run under the theme “We Run; She Learns”.

This annual event was intended to raise funds for financially struggling female students to enable them to continue and complete their education.

At least 200+ female students benefit from this scheme.

’We are especially grateful to Worldwide Smiles for sponsoring the ongoing medical camp. We also thank the participating schools and everyone who has stood with us in this noble cause. This run is for our girl child those needy girls at risk of dropping out due to lack of tuition. Your support gives them hope. We invite you to continue walking this journey with us into the future.

Associate Professor Ismail Simbwa Gyagenda, Rector IUIU

Speaking on behalf of the Rectorship, the Vice Rector for Academic Affairs, Dr. Jamil Serwanga, expressed heartfelt appreciation to all participants in the Run for the Girl Child, describing the event as “marvelous and massive.”

We thank everyone who took part in today’s run. It has been an incredible experience. We also thank Allah for the favorable weather the terrain was manageable, and despite covering over 20 kilometers, most participants completed it in under an hour. This is a true testament to the strength and dedication of the team. This run is a symbol of our commitment to supporting the country. The mindset is already established let’s keep running, let’s keep pushing forward to uplift those in need, especially the girl child.

Dr. Jamil Serwanga, Vice Rector for Academic Affairs

Dr. Serwanga reported that the event went smoothly with minimal incidents. “Apart from one participant who appeared fatigued and was assisted on a stretcher, the runners remained safe throughout. We are grateful to the organizing committee, security personnel, and traffic officers who ensured everything proceeded without challenge.”

He concluded by expressing hope for the continuity of the initiative: “Inshallah, we look forward to sustaining this effort and remaining united in this noble cause.”

The vice Rector of Finance and administration commended all participants for being part of the run, called upon more able partners to come onboard to support the girl child and also noted that the IUIU administration is ready to work with everyone.

Dr. Madinah Nabukeera, the Director of the IUIU Female’s Campus Kabojja, commended participants for supporting the Girl Child Run initiative, emphasizing that Islamic University in Uganda is the only female-only university in Sub-Saharan Africa.

She highlighted the pressing need for financial support, noting that over 500 girls at the campus risk dropping out due to lack of tuition.

“We launched this run to support such girls. Since 2022, we have raised funds and enabled more than 230 girls to continue their education,” she stated.

She further revealed that the initiative has grown significantly over the years from 900 runners in the first edition to 4,000 in 2024.

Dr. Madinah commended stakeholders, like DFCU Bank, Stanbic Bank, Cairo Bank, Faras, MTN, and other companies for their continued support.

“This money might look small, but it is transforming lives. These girls are future mothers, wives, aunties, and in-laws and they deserve a chance at education,” she added with a promise to return for the 2026 edition.

The Rector IUIU Assoc Prof Ismail Simbwa Gyagenda extended his heart felt gratitude to all partners including Tropical Bank, Stanbic, Sum’s, Cairo Bank, Farras, DFCU, Centenary, Baroda Bank, MTN, Maqam Travels, Twahira Centre, and Worldwide Smiles On behalf of the management, staff, and students of the Islamic University in Uganda for their unwavering support.

Additional report by Abdul Kyejusa Kizito