29 Aug 2023

The P800 000 sponsorship from Standard Chartered Bank Botswana towards the annual University of Botswana (UB) Marathon signifies the bank’s unwavering commitment to health and education.

Speaking at the launch of the new partnership with Standard Bank as the platinum sponsor in Gaborone on Monday, UB Vice Chancellor Prof. David Norris said with an unwavering commitment to advancing health and wellness in the country, the marathon spearheaded by the UB Foundation, was devoted to raising funds for graduate scholarships.

“Your consistent and continued support towards the UB Foundation’s endowment fund exemplifies the importance of collaboration,” he said.

He said beyond its scholarly ambition, the marathon was a dedicated effort to fighting the spread of silent killers, known as Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs).

Prof. Norris said Botswana’s success in healthcare, including noteworthy strides in HIV treatment, meant that more Batswana were living longer lives. “However with longevity of life comes increased risk. 

The rapid urbanisation of our nation, inclusive of changes in diet and rising inactive routines have secretly introduced unhealthy lifestyle choices which augment the NCD threat,” he said.

He, therefore, noted that the marathon was more than just a race as it urged all to prioritise health, make better lifestyle choices and actively combat the rise of NCDs.

Standard Chartered Bank CEO Mpho Masupe, said the longstanding relationship with UB, encompassing student accounts and financial literacy initiatives, led to the prestigious sponsorship.

He outlined the bank’s core value of ‘Lifting Participation,’ which he said propelled the bank’s mission to make banking accessible and facilitate meaningful societal impact such as supporting education.

He said education was important to Standard Chartered Bank as it was vital to building a society equipped with the skills needed to ensure an economically diverse and globally competitive country.

“As such, the marathon’s proceeds, contributing to UB’s scholarship endowment fund, create a ripple effect that extends beyond classrooms, impacting alumni networks, careers, and the nation’s innovative potential,” he said. 

The CEO further said the marathon offered a platform to boost the development of the local sports fraternity and allowed the country to showcase its ability to host international-level sporting events.

UB Foundation chairperson, Satar Dada stressed  the importance of partnership. 

“Today, marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to uplift education, promote health and wellness and foster a stronger sense of community in our beloved country,” he said. 

He said the sponsorship from Standard Chartered Bank was a testament to the bank’s commitment to fostering a healthier future for Batswana.

 “This marathon offers a platform to boost the development of the local sports fraternity and allows us to showcase Botswana’s ability to host international-level sporting events,” he said

He further noted that Standard Chartered Bank’s P800 000 sponsorship was not only a financial contribution but an embodiment of its commitment to local sports and education. The second annual Marathon will be held on September 24. ENDs