By Victor Turinawe
Uganda Christian University (UCU) is set to hold its first-ever university-wide Tuition Fundraising Run, and seeks to raise at least Shs500 million to support financially struggling students. The event, scheduled for October, will bring together all UCU campuses and colleges, stakeholders, and partners in a joint effort to ease the burden of tuition for students in need.
“We decided that instead of each campus doing separate fundraising runs, we should hold one major fundraising activity every semester. This creates visibility for the university and demonstrates our collective commitment to students who truly need the support,” Dorothy Tushemereirwe, the lead in the fundraising office said.
Tushemereirwe added the run aims to support at least 100 students to complete their academic programmes. However, the number of beneficiaries could increase significantly if more partners get on board. “We have already invited more than 36 partners. If they all join and support us, then we should be able to raise even more money and help more than 100 students,” she explained.
More than just a run
While the focus is on fundraising for tuition, organisers emphasise that the event will also serve other purposes. It is designed to promote physical fitness, build a strong community spirit, and market UCU to the wider public. “This run is not just about tuition. It is about fun, about keeping fit, and about projecting UCU’s image as a centre of excellence in the heart of Africa,” said Tushemereirwe.
T-shirts and bibs have already been made available for participants at Shs30,000 and Shs25,000 respectively. However, the university is encouraging anyone who may not be able to buy a bib to contribute any amount. “Every shilling counts. The money is deposited directly into the official UCU account, and at the end, the total amount collected will be announced to students,” said Dickson Tumuramye, the Head of Honours College.
Transparent selection process
Tushemereirwe said concerns about how the money will be allocated to students have been addressed. She clarified that a scholarships committee comprising student representatives, the deputy vice-chancellor for finance, and other officials will handle the selection process. “It would be a conflict of interest for the fundraising office to choose the beneficiaries. That responsibility lies entirely with the committee,” she noted.
Tumuramye also said beyond the run, the day promises to be fun-filled with different fun activities.
