Meru University of Science and Technology (MUST) has officially launched its inaugural charity run, a first-of-its-kind event designed to raise funds for financially disadvantaged students within the institution.
Dubbed “Conquering the Mountain”, the event is scheduled to take place on September 7, bringing together a vibrant mix of students, corporate sponsors, local leaders, and athletics enthusiasts in a show of solidarity for giving hope to financially challenged students.
Speaking today during the official launch at the university, Vice Chancellor Prof. Romanus Odhiambo expressed concern over the growing number of needy students who he said form 40 per cent of every year’s enrollment.
While proud of the university’s growing reputation, he painted a sobering picture of the financial struggles students face and called on the government to intervene and support such academics.
Every year, we enrol hundreds of students, and nearly half of them are in dire financial need. More than 40 per cent face significant financial constraints, which pose a major challenge to both the institution and the students’ academic journeys,” said Prof. Odhiambo.
He emphasised the urgent need for innovative approaches to support needy learners, adding that the run was a “creative solution to a growing crisis.”
“We have to think beyond the box. Education is considered universal according to government policy, but the reality on the ground tells a different story. So we are calling on the government to come in and help us ease the burden,” said the VC.
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Backing the initiative, Buuri Member of Parliament Mugambi Rindikiri called for systemic reforms in how universities are funded to cater to the needs of needy students fully.
“Meru University has not only put this region on the national map through academic excellence but also shown true leadership by tackling social issues head-on . We, as MPs from this region, will partner with the university to ensure every student gets quality education throughout their academic journey,” said the MP.
Rindikiri echoed the Vice Chancellor’s concerns, stating that universities must not be left to struggle alone in supporting thousands of needy learners.
He pledged to lobby for increased government support and recognition of institutions that innovate for impact.
The run will be open to participants from all walks of life and will feature three race categories: 14 kilometres, 8 kilometres, and 3 kilometres, starting from Marimba University to Mt. Kenya.
The event is not just a fundraiser but also a platform for environmental awareness.
The university is using the opportunity to sensitise the community on the importance of preserving nature, a cause championed through its green campus initiatives.
Partnering organisations include Safaricom, Coca-Cola, the Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA), the Kenya Defence Forces, the Kenya Tourism Board, and several private and public stakeholders.
The event also received a significant boost from Athletics Kenya’s Eastern Region officials, who flagged off the initiative and pledged their full support.
AK Eastern Region Chair Kithinji Maragara praised the university’s dual-purpose approach.
“This is not just a race; it’s a movement. We commend Meru University for turning athletics into a tool for social transformation. Helping one child access education while protecting the environment is something we can all rally behind,” said Maragara.
The run is expected to attract thousands of participants, from elite athletes to corporate teams and families.
The funds will be allocated directly to a student support fund.
By John Majau
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