The initiative is led by ITB professors who are members of GB Fit. Through the ITB Ultra Marathon, their sporting activities have evolved into a collective movement to mobilize financial support for the long-term sustainability of education at ITB.

^{Caption: Chair of the ITB Professors Forum (FGB), Prof. Ir. Mindriany Syafila, M.S., Ph.D.}

Chair of the ITB Professors Forum (FGB), Prof. Ir. Mindriany Syafila, M.S., Ph.D., explained that the idea of fundraising through running originated from the professors' desire to make meaningful contributions to the institution, not only through academic activities but also through initiatives that engage the wider community.

"Several professors who enjoy sports joined GB Fit. Then came the opportunity to participate in an ultramarathon. Building on our previous activities, we came up with the idea of running while raising funds," she said on Tuesday (October 13, 2026).

She emphasized that the professors' participation in the event reflects their support for ITB's development programs. Through running, they aim to encourage alumni, partners, and the wider community to work together in strengthening the ITB Endowment Fund.

Rather than relying solely on donation appeals, the professors seek to demonstrate their commitment through direct participation in an activity that requires physical endurance and teamwork.

Dozens of Professors Participate as Runners and Support Team Members

For the ITB Ultra Marathon 2026, the GB Fit community has formed three relay teams comprising 36 participants: one Relay 4 team (R4 GBFIT Unggul) and two Relay 16 teams (GBFIT HARMONIA and GBFIT PROGRESSIO). The runners will take turns completing the 180-kilometer route from Jakarta to Bandung.

In addition to the professors participating as runners, several other professors are involved as members of the support team. They assist with various operational needs, including logistics and coordination throughout the event.

The support team's involvement plays an essential role in ensuring that the runners can successfully complete the relay.

The professors' participation in different capacities demonstrates that their contributions to the Endowment Fund extend beyond running, reflecting the collaboration and collective support of the entire community.

Endowment Fund to Support Sustainable Scholarships

The fundraising initiative organized by GB Fit aims to support the ITB Endowment Fund, particularly through a designated endowment scheme for scholarships.

Unlike conventional donations that are immediately used to finance specific activities, endowment funds are managed by preserving the principal while utilizing the returns generated to support designated programs. Through this mechanism, the contributions collected are expected to provide long-term benefits.

Prof. Mindri explained that the management and utilization of the Endowment Fund are part of ITB's institutional programs administered through the Business and Endowment Fund Management Agency (BPUDL). Meanwhile, the professors, through GB Fit, focus on encouraging public participation to strengthen fundraising efforts.

"The principal of the Endowment Fund remains intact, while the returns generated from its management are used to support the programs," she explained.

Through this initiative, the professors hope that public contributions will not only deliver short-term benefits but also become a sustainable source of support for ITB students.

The participation of ITB professors in the ITB Ultra Marathon 2026 is part of a broader effort to foster a culture of giving back to their alma mater. Through this movement, the public is encouraged to participate by contributing to the ITB Endowment Fund.

Prof. Mindri stated that the fundraising campaign is expected to remain open throughout the ITB Ultra Marathon and beyond.

Driven by a spirit of togetherness among professors, alumni, the academic community, and the wider public, the ITB Ultra Marathon is expected to serve not only as a sporting event that strengthens solidarity but also as a collective movement that creates lasting benefits for education.

Members of the public, alumni, and the entire ITB academic community who wish to support this initiative can make donations through the official Inspirasi Berbagi ITB platform at https://inspirasiberbagi.itb.ac.id/gbfitberlari. Every contribution forms part of a collective effort to strengthen the ITB Endowment Fund and ensure the long-term sustainability of scholarships for students.