NSSF Hills Run targets sh1.5b for rural public schools

The 8th National Social Security Fund (NSSF) aims to raise sh1.5 billion from the 8th NSSF Hills Run, scheduled for December 6 at Kololo Independence Grounds, to continue supporting students in rural public schools.

At the launch, different corporate companies pledged their support to this year’s run with MTN offering sh100m, Housing Finance (sh80m), Goldstar Insurance (sh50m), Clarkson (sh15m), StarTimes (sh20m) while Vision Group and Next Media will provide editorial and advertising space for the run in the newspaper and other digital platforms.

Crown Beverages, through their Aquafina brand, will hydrate the runners, while many other corporate companies are lined up to offer similar support. These were represented by Martin Ssebuliba, Michael Mugabi, John Kawuma, Desire Derek Mugumisa, Claire Komakech, and Grace Namutebi, who all pledged support to the run. A kit for the run goes for sh35,000/.

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

Goldstar Insurance staff led by CEO John Kawuma (4th right) present a sh50m cheque to NSSF MD Patrick Ayota (4th left) during the launch of the 8th NSSF Hills Run, Nov 2, 2026. Photo by Michael Nsubuga

The latest beneficiaries—St. Mary’s Primary School, Kyatiri in Masindi (represented by Sister Edwina Mary Kamazima), Lira Modern Primary School (represented by Richard Akacha), and Nandago Primary School from Sironko (represented by Asumpta Nabutono)—shared positive testimonies about the impact of the funds at their schools at the launch of this year’s edition at NSSF headquarters yesterday.

The refurbishment of dilapidated classrooms, construction of new classroom blocks, and improved learning conditions and enrollment at these schools were made possible by a combined sh324m contribution to the three schools. All expressed their gratitude to NSSF and indicated a continued need for further support.

But NSSF Managing Director Patrick Ayota challenged the beneficiaries to involve former students, residents, and other well-wishers to pool funds which they can then match to allow them address additional needs that are still pending.

“For example, if you need fencing, set a goal to raise sh100m by the end of March.

We will provide an account for depositing these funds to ensure transparency. Once matched, we will have sh200m. Then we will will determine the extent of fencing possible within this budget,” Ayota, who was accompanied by the chief of marketing and corporate affairs, Barbara Arimi, and the senior public relations manager of NSSF, Victor Karamagi, suggested.

“If another school or block requires renovation, we will assess what can be accomplished within the available funds. 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, including contributions as small as 5,000 or 10,000 shillings.” He also encouraged them to start saving some of the money they spend on non-essentials.

“This education initiative is part of our CSR, and it's focused on creating positive, lasting impact on individuals, communities, and society at large,” Arimi stated.

NSSF Managing Director Patrick Ayota (left), receives a sh80m cheque from Housing Finance Bank MD Michael Mugabi (center) and Doreen Nyiramugisha during the launch of this year's NSSF Hills Run, November 2, 2026. Photo by Michael Nsubuga

She said apart from improving public schools, the other aspect they look at is allocating portions from the proceeds of the run towards digital literacy. “But we are just there to support the government's efforts and supplement whatever way that we can actually come in.”

Ssebuliba said they were pleased to participate in the 8th edition of the NSSF Run because it has become a regular part of their calendar since coming on board last 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. MTN has invested significantly in rural and digital education, reflecting our mission to ensure everyone benefits from a modern, connected life,” Ssebuliba stated.

The CEO of Housing Finance Bank Mugabi said the event reminds them of the most successful partnerships that are indeed not defined by commitments but 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.

Kawuma thanked NSSF and noted that they were not only organising a run but also offering an opportunity for corporates to join hands together and change what is really good for our country, promising to offer more support next year.

Namutebi said that as a global water brand, Aquafina holds an important responsibility, and that's to consistently support platforms that promote a healthy lifestyle and active community across the country.

“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."