Meru University of Science and Technology (MUST) has officially launched its inaugural charity mountain run to raise funds for financially disadvantaged students in 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 during the official launch at the university, Vice Chancellor Prof Romanus Odhiambo said needy students form 40 percent of every year’s enrollment.
While proud of the university’s growing reputation, he painted a picture of the financial struggles students face.
“Every year, we enroll hundreds of students, and nearly half of them are in dire financial need. More than 40 percent face significant financial constraints, which pose a major challenge to both the institution and the students’ academic journeys,” said Prof. Odhiambo.
He emphasized 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 universal as per 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.
Backing the initiative, Buuri Member of Parliament Mugambi Rindikiri called for systemic reforms in how universities are funded in order to fully cater for the needy students.
“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 kilometers, 8 kilometers, and 3 kilometers, 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 sensitize the community on the importance of preserving nature, a cause championed through its green campus initiatives.
Partnering organizations include Safaricom, Coca-Cola, Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA), Kenya Defence Forces, Kenya Tourism Board, and several private and public stakeholders.
The event also received a major 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 go directly into a student support fund.
