Thousands of runners thronged Makerere University on Sunday morning to take part in MakRun 2025, a charity marathon organised by the Makerere University Endowment Fund under the theme “Run for Education, Run for Inclusion.”
The prestigious run, supported by NCBA Bank and other partners, seeks to raise shs2 billion to revamp and renovate the university’s Students’ Centre for Persons with Disabilities.
It attracted Makerere staff and students, corporate companies, alumni, government officials, and private sector dignitaries all united in advancing inclusivity in education.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, said the marathon has become an annual tradition with both health and social benefits.
“We have decided that we will have a run at the beginning of every year. It is good for the health of our staff, students, and their families, but most importantly, it supports our students with disabilities. Proceeds from the previous marathons enabled us to establish and equip a one-stop Disability Centre with state-of-the-art facilities. This year, we plan to add more equipment and even provide new wheelchairs for those in need.”
James Churchill Ssentamu, the Guild President of Makerere University, described the event as a sign of continued commitment to inclusivity.
“MakRun is aimed at raising funds to strengthen how the university supports students with disabilities. Whoever bought a kit has contributed directly to their welfare. We believe our colleagues are not disabled but differently abled, and this initiative ensures that university education remains accessible to all, regardless of physical challenges.”
From the Ministry of Education, Robert Bellarmine Okudi, Commissioner for Education Planning, praised the turnout and linked the event to broader opportunities.
“I am very happy with the numbers that turned up today. This run shows that we can nurture all talents and abilities in society. Having run marathons myself, including the 90km Comrades Marathon in South Africa, I can see Makerere building a strong marathon culture that will inspire even greater participation in the future.”
Jennifer Mwijukye, a board member of the Makerere University Endowment Fund, thanked participants and sponsors for making the event a success.
“Thank you for responding to our promotions and sacrificing your time to be with us early in the morning. This run is about more than just raising funds—it is about unity, support, and reconnecting with our mother university. With NCBA’s sponsorship and the commitment of our alumni, staff, and students, we believe each year will be better than the last.”
The MakRun initiative has become one of Makerere University’s signature fundraising drives, with proceeds dedicated to improving the learning environment for students with disabilities.
This year’s target of shs2 billion will go toward expanding and renovating the Disability Centre, ensuring that all students have equal access to education.
