NSSF Hills Run Aims to Raise Sh1.5 Billion for Rural Schools

The National Social Security Fund (NSSF) has launched the eighth edition of its annual Hills Run, setting an ambitious target of sh1.5 billion to support students in rural public schools. The run is scheduled for December 6 at Kololo Independence Grounds.

Corporate Partners Pledge Support

At the launch event held at NSSF headquarters, several corporate companies demonstrated their commitment to the cause. MTN led the pledges with sh100 million, followed by Housing Finance with sh80 million, Goldstar Insurance with sh50 million, Clarkson with sh15 million, and StarTimes with sh20 million. Vision Group and Next Media will provide editorial and advertising space across their platforms. Crown Beverages, through its Aquafina brand, will keep runners hydrated.

Representatives from these companies, including Martin Ssebuliba, Michael Mugabi, John Kawuma, Desire Derek Mugumisa, Claire Komakech, and Grace Namutebi, all voiced their support for the initiative. A kit for the run is available at sh35,000.

Impact on Education

Proceeds from previous runs have made a tangible difference. Over 40,000 students have benefited daily, 60 classroom buildings have been renovated, and sanitation has improved in 25 primary schools nationwide. Student enrollment has increased by 12%, and dropout rates have declined.

The latest beneficiaries, St. Mary’s Primary School in Kyatiri, Masindi; Lira Modern Primary School; and Nandago Primary School in Sironko, shared positive testimonies at the launch. A combined contribution of sh324 million to these three schools enabled the refurbishment of dilapidated classrooms, construction of new blocks, and improved learning conditions. The schools expressed gratitude to NSSF and highlighted the need for further support.

A Call for Community Involvement

NSSF Managing Director Patrick Ayota challenged the beneficiaries to engage former students, residents, and well-wishers to pool funds that NSSF can match. "For example, if you need fencing, set a goal to raise sh100 million by the end of March. We will provide an account for depositing these funds to ensure transparency. Once matched, we will have sh200 million. Then we will determine the extent of fencing possible within this budget," Ayota suggested.

He also encouraged schools to start saving small amounts, even as little as sh5,000 or sh10,000, to contribute to their development. "By involving alumni, community members, and friends of the school, we can significantly expand our support. We will treat this as a pilot initiative, with the goal of enabling broader participation," he added.

Corporate Social Responsibility

Barbara Arimi, NSSF’s chief of marketing and corporate affairs, emphasized that the education initiative is part of their corporate social responsibility. "This education initiative is part of our CSR, and it's focused on creating positive, lasting impact on individuals, communities, and society at large," she stated. She also noted that apart from improving public schools, proceeds from the run support digital literacy. "But we are just there to support the government's efforts and supplement whatever way that we can actually come in," she added.

Martin Ssebuliba of MTN expressed pleasure in participating in the run for the second consecutive year. "This initiative aligns closely with MTN’s values. Through the MTN Foundation, we are committed to supporting education, especially in rural areas. We appreciate that this year’s run supports education, particularly digital education, which is a key focus for us," he said.

Michael Mugabi, CEO of Housing Finance Bank, remarked that the event reminds them of successful partnerships defined by impact. "When we first came on board, we were inspired by a simple but powerful idea that bringing people together around a common purpose could indeed create lasting change for Ugandans. And our contribution is rooted in the conviction that education remains one of our most powerful drivers of social and economic transformation," Mugabi stated.

John Kawuma of Goldstar Insurance thanked NSSF for organizing the run and providing an opportunity for corporates to collaborate for the country’s good. He promised increased support next year. Grace Namutebi of Crown Beverages emphasized Aquafina’s responsibility to support healthy lifestyles and active communities. "We are honoured to walk this journey alongside NSSF in championing a healthier, more active Uganda, as well as giving back to the transformation of public schools within our communities. We encourage all the runners, the clubs, the communities, and friends and families; this is something that really anyone can come through. So, let's register and let's come together to transform our public schools," she said.