On Saturday, May 31, 2025, the Strathmore Sports Complex pulsed with energy, color, and purpose as hundreds gathered for the 5th edition of the Strathmore Vice Chancellor’s Run (VC Run), a behemoth of goodwill and determination. Dubbed “Run for Scholarships,” the event brought together elite athletes, students, alumni, corporate partners, and families, all united by a single mission, to make higher education accessible to bright, deserving students from underprivileged backgrounds.
From sunrise to midday, the air buzzed with anticipation and celebration. With every step taken, whether during the 21 KM challenge, the 10 KM and 5 KM runs, or the vibrant 2.5 KM family walk, participants turned strides into scholarships and kilometers into hope.
“Strathmore didn’t just give me an education. It gave me wings,” shared Jesse Wanda, a scholarship beneficiary and Electrical and Electronics Engineering student.
The event kicked off at dawn with arrivals and registration by 6:00 AM, followed by a lively warm-up session. The 7:00 AM flag-off saw participants pour onto the course, cheered on by staff, volunteers, and an excited crowd.
As runners crossed the finish line by midmorning, they were greeted with stretching stations, water, and warm applause. The event climaxed with a celebratory cake-cutting ceremony, awarding of top finishers, and a spirited music and dance session that kept the crowd on their feet.
New to this year’s edition was a dedicated Family Corner, ensuring young ones were not just spectators but part and parcel of the fun. Children enjoyed bouncing castles, face painting, horse and camel rides, and a lively colour fest and DJ session. Food stalls featuring nyama choma and assorted snacks completed the carnival atmosphere.
The 2.5 KM walk gave families and first-timers a fun, inclusive way to participate in the impact-driven event.
This year’s run was made possible through the support of committed partners who believe in education as a force for transformation.
Absa Life Assurance Kenya, ICEA LION Group, Kingdom Bank, Sekura International Limited, KAFOKA Mukuru StudyVille and Edith Cowan University reaffirmed their commitment with financial support.
JAC Kenya unveiled the official Lead Chase Car, a 100% electric double-cabin vehicle, symbolizing a future powered by both sustainability and impact.
Qatar Airways went above and beyond by offering exclusive travel benefits for the entire Strathmore community. From complimentary enrollment into the Qatar Airways Student Club and Privilege Club, to flight discounts, bonus Avios, and a raffle for a free return ticket to any Qatar Airways destination
Arabuko Limited ensured runners stayed energized with bananas for every participant while ORS fueled our runners with their formulated electrolyte drinks, ensuring everyone stayed hydrated and energized.
Tropical Heat Group provided delightful snack packs for all participants and gift hampers for winners.
Work-Out Warehouse Gym, known played a key role in encouraging our participants to stay active, fit, and focused.
Each partner played a vital role in amplifying the reach and meaning of the run.
During the closing moments of the event, Mrs. Bernadette Musundi, Chair of the University Council, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all attendees, highlighting the remarkable energy and unity that defined the day.
“Events like the VC Run bring people together for a greater cause. To provide education for students in need,” she remarked. With a warm cheer, she acknowledged the commitment of the attendees: “I do not take it for granted that you chose to spend your Saturday supporting a cause dear to all our hearts.” In her parting words, she challenged the runners to return next year with even greater resolve to support students in need.
Time check!
Dr. Vincent Ogutu, Vice Chancellor of Strathmore University, also addressed the crowd, reflecting on the inspiring journey of the VC Run.
“The first run had 200 participants. Today, we have over 2,000,” he noted, marveling at its steady growth.
Beyond physical fitness, Dr. Ogutu shared how running has become a space for building meaningful friendships. He celebrated the progress of standout runners, giving special mention to Jabez and Paul Munyao, both of whom finished among the top three.
He urged all in attendance to embrace the spirit of purposeful running, saying, “Run for a purpose. Set your target and keep achieving it.”
Adding to this, he recounted a moment when a Strathmore Scholarship beneficiary passed him and proudly shouted, “I am a Scholarship Beneficiary!”
Moments like this inform his dream of expanding access to scholarships for students in need. He encouraged scholarship beneficiaries and the wider student body to remain focused and resilient.
“Work hard and go places,” he concluded.
Strathmore University’s commitment to transforming lives through education has never been stronger. With over KES 1.5 billion disbursed in scholarships and 11,000+ students supported across 20 countries in Africa, in the last 10 years, the VC Run continued to serve as a rallying point for hope and opportunity.
“Our primary goal is to raise funds for scholarships, enabling talented students from underprivileged backgrounds to pursue higher education,” explains Dr. Edward Mungai, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Partnerships and Development. “We pursue funds from corporate organisations, well-to-do individuals, families, and trusts, who are keen to give back to society through education.”
For students and alumni like Evans Ijakaa and Elizabeth Wangui, the scholarships funded through this initiative have rewritten their life stories, allowing them to pursue their dreams, give back to their communities, and inspire others to do the same.
By the end of the event, one thing was clear: the VC Run was a celebration of human potential, a testament to the power of community, and a resounding call to action that education must remain within reach for all.
As the sun set on the Sports Complex, it left behind stories of laughter, sweat, shared goals, and lives uplifted.
And with each year, this run grows stronger. Hope to see you all for the 6th edition of the Strathmore VC Run.
Article written by Stephen Wakhu.
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