Fourth Makerere Run to raise funds for students with disability

Organisers of the Makerere Run have said this year’s edition will aim at raising funds for construction of a dedicated students centre that will among others house a unit for learners with disability.

Speaking during the launch of the fourth edition of the Mak Run held at the university on Tuesday, State Minister for Youth, Balaam Barugahara hailed Makerere for its steadfast dedication to providing top-quality education, convalescing visions in Uganda and across Africa.

“I commend Makerere University for its commitment to inclusivity, particularly in support of students living with disabilities. As Proverbs 31:8-9 asserts, "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves...defend the rights of the poor and needy. This dedication to students with disability deserves praise and reflects the values of compassion and social justice cherished by Makerere University,”Barugahara said.

The minister applauded Dr.Maggie Kigozi and the late Martin Aliker for their role in reviving and promoting the endowment fund at Makerere and initiating the Makerere Run .

Additionally, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the Minister of Education and Sports for advancing the growth of Makerere University. I acknowledge the significant role she played in financing the innovation of the building and the ongoing renovation of the halls of residence, starting with Mitchell Hall. As an alumnus of Makerere University, I see the importance of selfless contribution and foresight, as we plant the seeds of progress and prosperity for future generations.

“This is not only a healthy initiative but also a timely response to the recent call by the Minister of Public Service and Health to promote a culture of regular exercise among public servants.”

He said he would convince government officials, including the Prime Minister to support and join the Makerere Run.

“Let us demonstrate our solidarity with students living with disabilities by purchasing kits and contributing to their well-being and academic success.”

Makerere University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe said the Makerere Run has for many years contributed to the university’ strategy of creating a conducive learning environment for our students.

The idea of a student center and Disability Support Unit is clearly mentioned in the university's strategic plan. However, we have been held back by resource constraints. The quality of an organization is now measured by the care it takes for people with disabilities. The number of students with disabilities is set to rise when we begin implementing phase two of the MasterCard Foundation, as 20% of the recipients are supposed to be persons with disabilities,” Prof. Nawangwe said.

He noted that a good number of students has benefitted from the disability support unit of the university, but said the unit still needs a lot of support.

John Nimunsiima, the chairperson of the organizing committee said this year’s run will be held on August 18 under the theme, "Run for students with disabilities.”

“The proceeds from this year's run will go towards the construction of a state-of-the-art students' centre and disability support unit at Makerere University. The students centre will feature essential facilities such as a business hub, innovation center, dining area, and a dedicated disability support unit, ensuring that students with disabilities have access to the resources they need to excel in their studies,”Nimunsiima said.