Running for Education

Iqraa has contributed nearly $450,000 to support UPA’s educational programs since 2008 through our fund-raising. This has been accomplished through the efforts of scores of runners and volunteers, and the generosity of many caring donors.

Funds raised by Iqraa for UPA go to its Mahmoud Darwish Scholarship Program. Since 1986, UPA has helped over 3,000 Palestinian students realize their dream of higher education. UPA awards four-year scholarships that cover most of a student’s tuition costs to study at universities in the West Bank and Jordan, with the intent of restoring similar support in Gaza. Recipients must demonstrate academic excellence, financial need and a desire to give back to their community and nation. By assisting students attending local universities, UPA seeks to buttress Palestinian higher education and encourage the development of an independent, sustainable Palestinian economy.