Running for a cause

More than $140,000 was raised for financially disadvantaged NUS Business School undergraduates and the Autism Resource Centre (ARC) during the NUS Bizad Charity Run 2017 held on 14 January.

Organised by NUS Business School Alumni Association (NUSBSA) and NUS Bizad Club, the annual event was graced by Member of Parliament for Mountbatten SMC and Deputy Speaker of Parliament Mr Lim Biow Chuan, and saw participation of more than 1,400 runners.  

“The NUS Bizad Charity Run has helped raise funds for those in need while promoting the spirit of giving back to society. Such a cause has not gone unnoticed by the public and this is why we have seen a record number of participants at the run who want to do their part for the community,” said Mr Ow Tai Zhi (Business, ’11), Chairman of NUS Bizad Charity Run 2017.

The route of the charity run went through the University’s Kent Ridge Campus, with slopes, turns and an elevation of 36.3m. Runners could choose to take part in either the 10km Competitive Run or the 5km Fun Run.

To help raise awareness for autism, the theme “Colours & Spectrum” was specially created for the 5km Fun Run category. Runners donned decorative appliques and spray colours to celebrate the diversity of autistic conditions and individuals.

Some $100,000 of the amount raised will go towards NUS Business bursaries and scholarships. The remaining will be given in support of ARC’s Employability and Employment Centre — Singapore’s first autism-focused centre assisting people with autism to succeed in the workplace.

“This annual flagship event of NUS Business School provides a good platform for alumni to do their part for their fellow students and the community. We are proud of this tradition and look forward to doing it every year,” said Mr Sonny Yuen (Business, ’85), President of NUSBSA.