The launch was attended by ITB Rector Prof. Dr. Ir. Tatacipta Dirgantara, M.T.; ITB professors who joined the GBFIT running team; representatives of communities, alumni, and donors.

In his remarks, the Rector emphasized that this initiative was not merely about sports but also about solidarity and inspiration for the academic community and alumni. “We want to strengthen our sense of togetherness. If we aim to build Indonesia, ITB must be one of the pillars. Through the endowment fund, we seek to ensure the continuity of education and expand opportunities for young generations across the country,” he said.

Prof. Dr.rer.nat. Poerbandono, S.T., M.M., Head of BPUDL ITB, explained that building an endowment fund is a long-term journey that requires consistency and broad collaboration. The fund is managed prudently with safe financial instruments to ensure sustainable benefits for ITB.

“Managing an endowment is never instant. But if we can grow participation and support from multiple stakeholders, it will become a strong foundation for ITB’s operations, scholarships, and research,” he noted.

In this program, participants will run a 180 km marathon from Jakarta to Bandung, divided into several stages. The relay format involves 16 runners, with ITB professors split into two main teams: the GBFIT Fund Team, led by Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Prof. Brian Yuliarto, Ph.D., and the GBFIT Endowment Team, led directly by ITB Rector Prof. Tatacipta Dirgantara.

Meanwhile, Prof. Ir. Mindriany Syafila, MS., Ph.D., Chair of ITB’s Professors Forum (FGB), highlighted the importance of community support and participation. She called on all faculties, schools, and alumni to stand behind the campaign. “This movement will continue to resonate as inspiration for all communities registered in the Wondr ITB Ultra Marathon 2025, while also strengthening bonds among professors, alumni, and society,” she said.

The “GBFIT Running for the Endowment Fund” program aims to raise funds through donor participation and public support. Donations can be made through the official campaign platform at inspirasiberbagi.itb.ac.id/gbfitberlari.

With the spirit of gotong royong (mutual cooperation), the steps taken by ITB’s professors in this Ultra Marathon are not just about running, but about leaving a legacy of goodwill for the future of education in Indonesia.