The Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) Female Campus Kabojja hosted the 'Run for Girl Child Education' marathon on September 27, 2026, to reinforce its dedication to improving access to education for girls. The event, held at the campus from 9:00 a.m., featured participants from IUIU Kampala Campus, Mbogo High School, and other institutions. Funds were raised through jersey kit sales priced at Shs10,000, Shs20,000, and Shs50,000, with proceeds supporting educational initiatives. The marathon was organized by IUIU officials, including Director Ismail Simbwa Gyagenda, who emphasized the importance of education for girls' empowerment.
Following the race, attendees engaged in recreational activities such as chair dance, eating competitions, and tug of war, while Mengo Hospital facilitated a blood donation drive. The event was sponsored by Tropical Bank, Faras Boda, Pearl Tours and Travel Services, Centenary Bank, Cairo Bank, dfcu Bank, and MTN Uganda, which also provided prizes like umbrellas and bags to winners. Key figures present included Maruzi North County MP Benard Otim Odoc, Kyadondo East MP Nkunyingi Muwada, and IUIU Director Ismail Simbwa Gyagenda, who urged girls to prioritize education for personal and societal advancement.
The marathon aimed to address systemic barriers to girls' education through community mobilization and institutional collaboration. Organizers highlighted the event's dual purpose of generating financial support and fostering public awareness about the challenges girls face in accessing education. By uniting schools, businesses, and local leaders, the initiative underscored the role of collective action in advancing gender equity in education. The event also coincided with broader national discussions on improving educational access and reducing gender disparities in Uganda.
IUIU's efforts align with global and regional campaigns to promote girls' education, reflecting a growing emphasis on empowering women through academic and professional opportunities. The marathon's success demonstrated the potential of grassroots initiatives to drive meaningful change, while its partnerships with private sector sponsors highlighted the importance of cross-sector collaboration. Organizers stated the event was part of ongoing efforts to sustain momentum in advocating for girl-child education in Uganda.