UNDP, BUE launch largest univ. marathon “Run for Health and Wellbeing”

06 / 05 / 2024

By Marwa Nassar - -

The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the British University in Egypt (BUE) launched the largest university marathon for public health, titled “Run for Health and Well-being”, in line with the Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG3) on Health and Wellbeing.

The marathon comes within the framework of UNDP and the British University’s pivotal role in organizing periodic events that aim to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and achieve Egypt’s Vision 2030.

The marathon saw the enthusiastic participation of thousands, ranging from ages 4 to 70, including children, women, men, and youth. Following the conclusion of the marathon, participants had the opportunity to engage in a diverse array of events hosted on the sidelines. These included a health bazaar, an open art exhibition featuring students’ creative works and initiatives, medical examinations, as well as a variety of sports and entertainment activities tailored for children.

The marathon – organized by Cairo Runners – was held under the patronage of the Ministries of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Youth and Sports, and the British Embassy in Egypt.

The marathon was attended by esteemed dignitaries, including Dr. Ashraf Sobhy, Minister of Youth and Sports, Farida Khamis, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of the BUE, Alessandro Fracassetti, UNDP Resident Representative in Egypt, Prof. Dr. Mohamed Lotfy, President of the British University, Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Dr. Alkhan Bulukhov, Ambassador Andras Kovacs, Ambassador of Hungary to Egypt, Ambassador of Singapore to Egypt, Dominic Goh and CEO of the National Basketball Association of Africa, Claire Akamanzi.

In his speech, Dr. Ashraf Sobhy, Minister of Youth and Sports, praised the fruitful cooperation between the British University in Egypt and the Ministry of Youth and Sports in several fields that serve Egyptian youth, pointing out that the British University in Egypt plays an important role in contributing to community development and in accelerating the pace of work to reach the ministry’s goals of implementing projects and programs in the shortest possible time.

Sobhy emphasized the unwavering support of the political leadership for such initiatives, which reflects how far the Egyptian citizens’ health and well-being is a top priority, highlighting the paramount importance placed on the health and well-being of Egyptian citizens.

He reiterated the ministry’s commitment to partnering with various institutions to organize sports marathons across all governorates, in alignment with the ministry’s annual sports events agenda and in accordance with the directives of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi.

Sobhy further stated that the ministry actively promotes the organization of marathons and sports races to inspire all members of society to engage in sports activities, uphold physical fitness, and underscore the significance of safeguarding and enhancing public health.

This initiative is bolstered by the unwavering encouragement from the political leadership to embrace sports and nurture talent across all disciplines, whether individual or team based. Such endeavors highlight the pivotal role of sports in fostering societal well-being and development.

In her statement, Farida Khamis, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of the BUE, reiterated the university’s unwavering dedication to pursuing avenues that facilitate the attainment of sustainable development objectives.

She emphasized the university’s alignment with the directives of the political leadership, advocating for solidarity and collaboration between the public and private sectors to bolster the health and well-being of citizens.

She further highlighted that the British University adheres to a distinct vision established by its late founder, Farid Khamis, which is reinforced by successful initiatives. These initiatives span various domains, including university-level endeavors where students actively engage and collaborate with prominent institutions in organizing medical convoys like “Hayat Karima”(or Decent Life) and “For Egypt.”

Moreover, at the national level, the university collaborates closely with diverse government ministries and sectors such as the Ministries of Higher Education and Scientific Research, and Youth and Sports. Additionally, at the international level, the university fosters partnerships with esteemed international institutions, such as the UNDP.

Prof. Dr. Mohamed Lotfy, President of the British University in Egypt, praised the level of youth participation, awareness and willingness to participate in public initiatives, which was reflected in their massive attendance, expressing his happiness for the success of the British University’s partnership with UNDP in achieving its goal of raising awareness about the importance of good health and healthy lifestyles as well as the right of people to access quality healthcare services, especially for the most vulnerable groups such as women and children, who recorded a remarkable attendance in the marathon.

Dr. Lotfy stressed that the British University is a pioneer in launching such initiatives that pave the way to achieve the sustainable development goals and the vision of Egypt 2030, and its efforts and initiatives to achieve health care for citizens such as the presidential initiative “100 Million Health” and other initiatives.

He also noted the British University launched this Marathon edition, for the second year in a row, with a different goal this time. Last year, the university achieved tremendous success through the “Marathon for Climate” – in which more than 7,000 participants took part – and today the university continues the success march with the “Marathon for Public Health” which witnessed the participation of thousands of people of all ages.

From his side, UNDP Resident Representative in Egypt Alessandro Fracassetti said, “Pleased to join BUE and Cairo Runners again for our second annual run. Last year, we ran for climate action, focusing on SDG 13. This year, our aim shifts to promoting good health and wellbeing, aligning with SDG 3. The connection between these goals is vital; as climate change directly impacts human health. I am pleased to see thousands of people here today, joining us in our journey to empower youth and advance sustainable development.”

In turn, Professor Mohamed Lotfy, President of the British University in Egypt, praised the level of youth participation, awareness, and readiness to engage in public initiatives, which was reflected in their tremendous presence. He expressed his happiness at the success of the partnership between the British University and UNDP in achieving its goal of raising awareness about the importance of good health and wellbeing, as well as people’s right to access healthcare services, especially for the most vulnerable groups such as women and children, who recorded a noticeable attendance rate in the marathon.

Dr. Lofty affirmed that the British University is a pioneer in launching such initiatives that pave the way for achieving sustainable development goals and the vision of the Egyptian state for 2030.

He noted the university’s efforts and initiatives to provide healthcare to citizens, such as the 100 million health initiative.

He pointed out that the British University launched this edition for the second consecutive year with a different objective.

Last year, the university achieved great success through a climate marathon, which saw the participation of over 7,000 participants. Today, the university continues its path of success with a public health marathon, engaging thousands of participants of all age groups.

Dr. Abeer Shakweer, UNDP Egypt Assistant Resident Representative said: ” Our partnership with the British University in Egypt has been incredibly rewarding since 2022, allowing us to raise awareness and enhance capacity on climate change while engaging youth worldwide in crucial discussions on climate action. Today and for the second time, we run for good health and well-being, as we renew our commitment to empower youth and foster a healthier more sustainable future for all.”