The Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST) has been leading efforts to encourage girls’ participation in STEM studies through the Nelson Mandela Marathon held in Arusha city.

This year’s races took place on July 20, 2025, in Arusha under the theme “Efforts in Science, Steps and Achievements,” with the guest of honour being the District Commissioner of Arumeru, Honourable Mwinyi Ahmed Mwinyi.

Hon. Mwinyi said this year’s theme perfectly aligns with the efforts of the sixth phase government under President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan to empower women and girls educationally, especially in science subjects. The government supports these initiatives that promote gender equality and help youth develop broad academic visions.

Meanwhile, Prof. Maulilio Kipanyula, the Deputy Vice Chancellor of the Institute, said the races are not just about competition but a way to motivate girls to pursue their dreams. Positive results are already showing, as this year the number of girls applying for science programs at NM-AIST has increased by more than 30%.

One of the participants, Gracious Mmari from Kiserian, Arusha, said, “I want to become an aerospace engineer, and today I learned that it is not just a dream but something achievable,” noting that this year’s theme symbolizes efforts to break gender barriers in science fields and to nurture girls’ talents.

The races included competitions of 2.5 km, 5 km, 10 km, and 21 km, as well as children’s races for both genders.

The event was highly successful thanks to sponsorship from various organizations including NM-AIST, Bonite Bottlers Ltd, CRDB Bank, NMB, TEMDO, Red Cross, Radio 5, NSK Hospitals, GI Security, and over 15 other partners. This collaboration has strengthened the event’s impact, serving as a prime example of the partnership between the private sector and educational institutions for community development.