By Irene Best  Nyapendi and Blessing Twiine

MUKONO, 17 October 2026 – Students, staff, partners and well-wishers gathered at Uganda Christian University (UCU) Main Campus today, for the Annual UCU Tuition Run, an event that raised over UGX 50 million in contributions and commitments to keep struggling students in school.

Organised by the 28th Guild Government, the run carried a message, that every student deserves the opportunity to realise their study.

The tuition run is organised by the Guild President and his cabinet, with support from the Director of Student Affairs and university management. Its proceeds go to students who are already enrolled but whose circumstances have changed midway through their studies.

Speaking at the event, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Aaron Mushegyenzi, explained who the money is meant to help. Some students have lost the parents or guardians who paid their fees. Others come from families where a breadwinner has lost a job, or been disabled in an accident and can no longer provide.

“Because those students are already in their second year, or third year, or fourth year, it pains us to see them drop out of their program,” he said.

He thanked Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, Prime Minister of Uganda, who was also invited as chief guest for her generous contribution of UGX 20 million.

Several university offices also made commitments:

• Vice-Chancellor’s Office: UGX 15 million
• Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Finance and Administration: UGX 10 million
• Directorate of Student Affairs: UGX 2 million
• Communication and Public Relations: UGX 1 million

Professor Mushegyenzi also thanked partners including Uganda Partners for their UGX 2 million contribution, Star Express, Audio Studio, Jibu, among others. He appealed to those who could not attend to donate generously.

Apenyo Bekele and Prisca Waku emerged as the overall best runners in the male and female categories, respectively.

The run is one of several fundraising activities for the cause such as the singing and painting competition.

Funds raised are kept in a scholarship fund at the finance department, and students on the list can then apply for support. Each year, the university supports roughly 150 students this way.

For students who might otherwise leave before graduating, support like this can mean the difference between finishing and dropping out. Those who wish to contribute to the scholarship fund can contact the Directorate of Student Affairs or the 28th Guild Government at UCU Main Campus.