Corporates back NSSF Hills Run to uplift schools

Early this year, the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) officially commissioned a fully renovated classroom block at Oreku Primary School in Arua City, restoring hope to learners and teachers who had endured years of hardship due to a dilapidated structure.

The renovation, which cost over sh100m, was a huge relief for the school. Some classrooms had been in very poor condition, and one block could not be used after strong winds blew off its roof.

Thanks to NSSF, the school received full structural repairs, and electricity was installed. This is the first time in years the school has had power. And it is the reason that P.6 pupil Pascal Ondia who used to study under the shade of a tree is now studying in better conditions and with high hopes of making it in life.

The money that was used to execute the work was part of the proceeds from the annual NSSF Kampala Hills Run which returns at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds on October 12 with different partners still committed to transforming public schools which are in similar state.

Speaking during the launch of this year’s run at Workers House on Wednesday, NSSF Managing Director Patrick Ayota invited Ugandans to join the run and contribute to improving learning conditions in public primary schools.

He said they hope to raise sh1.5b from this year’s run with proceeds going towards ten public schools across the country to undertake school renovations, improve sanitation, and enhance digital literacy.

MTN will contribute sh200m, Housing Finance Bank sh100m, Aquafina will take care of all the hydration while New Vision, Nation Media and Next Media will publicise the event before, during and after the event.

NSSF Managing Director Patrick Ayota (right) poses with Oreku Primary School's Pascal Ondia during the launch of the NSSF Hills Run at Workers House. Photo by Michael Nsubuga

“Over the past five years, the genesis of this initiative has extended beyond renovation, boosting enrollment, and supporting the renovation of 60 blocks, as well as improving sanitation in 25 schools across the country. Over 40,000 students benefit from these interventions,” Ayota noted.

He said the run is organized by NSSF in partnership with MTN Uganda, Housing Finance Bank, New Vision and Next Media, Aquafina and a number of other corporate entities. These were represented by Sylivia Mulinge, Michael Mugabi, Kenneth Oduka, Grace Namutebi and Andrew Kabura respectively, among other representatives.

Mulinge hailed the enthusiasm and passion Ugandans have for sports and added that they believe in the power of running not only just as sport but also as movement that unites people from all walks of life.

“What began as an MTN-led initiative has now evolved into a collaborative effort and you’ll be seeing us participating in similar running events that are supporting causes that are close to our customers hearts and it is the reason why we have partnered with NSSF.

“This is about rekindling the spirit of running for impact and ensuring that together we can continue to make a difference in the lives of many Ugandans,” Mulinge stated.

“Also, our reaffirmation of our commitment to developing local athletic talent, supporting both and established talent to reach their full potential.”

Mugabi said the bank has over the years been empowering communities, enabling Ugandans achieve their aspirations and dreams and fostering the general wellbeing of communities.

“We understand that actual progress is only possible when the people we serve have an opportunity to leave to learn and thrive,”

He said the bank has committed over sh100m which can aid up to 1000 young learners.

“Each shilling we commit is dedicated to creating classrooms that inspire curiosity, that foster creativity and improved learning spaces for over 15,000 children across the country,” he stated.

New Vision Marketing Manager Kenneth Oduka said they will provide advertising space for the run in the newspaper and other digital platforms.

“This run supports education and we do so many educational stories so we found it fit to promote the run so we can contribute to the development of education in the country,” Oduka said.  

Kit for the run goes for sh35,000/ upon payment through MOMO Pay, from the various NSSF and Housing Finance Bank branches and selected locations around Kampala.