The National University of Singapore (NUS) Business School’s annual flagship event, NUS Bizad Charity Run (BCR) 2019, kick-starts the new year with over 1,500 participants comprising the public, alumni and current students.
In its ninth edition, the event raised a record $250,000 this year with $210,000 going towards student bursaries and scholarships, in particular the NUS Business School Alumni Association (NUSBSA) Bursary Fund and NUS Business Student Support Fund. In addition, over $40,000 was raised for Cerebral Palsy Alliance Singapore (CPAS) to support programmes and services for those with cerebral palsy and multiple disabilities. Presenting the cheques to the beneficiaries was guest-of-honour, Mr Lawrence Wong, Minister for National Development and Second Minister for Finance.
Taking helm as Chairman of BCR 2019 is Mr Steven Yeo, Vice President of NUSBSA and an alumnus of the NUS Executive Master of Business Administration (MBA) programme. He said, “The NUS Bizad Charity Run is a great cause that not only helps the less privileged undergraduates achieve their goals in NUS Business School, but also to support a community beneficiary. I am pleased to be a mentor and to be able to provide guidance to the student committee managing this special and meaningful project.”
According to CPAS, cerebral palsy is a misunderstood diagnosis in Singapore. Hence, the BCR 2019 committee hopes to raise awareness about the neurological disorder and inspire hope for cerebral palsy individuals and their families through the slogan “Steps Towards Hope”.
Ms Latha Kutty, Executive Director of CPAS, said, “The funds raised will go a long way in empowering our beneficiaries through three core programmes, namely the Early Intervention Program for Infants and Children (EIPIC), CPAS School, and CPAS Adult Services. Beyond the monetary donations, the charity run provides a platform for the public to learn more about our beneficiaries with cerebral palsy and multiple disabilities.”
The charity run comprises two segments – a competitive 10KM run as well as a 5KM fun run that is themed “Colours” this year. Both routes take participants through the university’s Kent Ridge campus. Participants of the fun run will be able to get their hair colour-sprayed while collecting stamps from three carnival station games that will allow eligible runners to redeem a free cup of bubble tea upon completion.
Student Project Director Mr Nathaniel Tan, said, “As part of the preparation for the NUS Bizad Charity Run, my team had the opportunity to volunteer at CPAS. This made the work we do for this event even more meaningful. It is an honour to be in-charge of such an important event that also allows undergraduates such as myself to contribute back to society.”
