USM PENANG, 18 January 2025 – The School of Languages, Literacies, and Translation (SoLLaT) at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), in collaboration with Teleperformance Malaysia, had successfully hosted an extraordinary event: The Literary Backpack Fun Run 2025 recently at the USM main campus.

What set this fun run apart was its unique concept: participants carried backpacks filled with books, symbolising a blend of education and physical activity.

The morning of 12 January 2025 kicked off with an inspiring opening ceremony, where Michael Christopher Sanchez, Representative of Teleperformance emphasised the vital role of sports in student life and highlighted the importance of university-industry partnerships.

Dr. Mozhgan Ghassemiazghandi, the project leader, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Teleperformance Malaysia for their sponsorship, acknowledging key individuals who made the event possible: Andy Rangel (CEO, Teleperformance Malaysia and Thailand); Michael Costevec (Chief of Staff); Lewis Chung (Senior Director of Talent Acquisition); and Sundas Rawat (Senior Manager of Talent Strategy and Teleperformance’s Literary Backpack Fun Run director).

Adding to the occasion’s significance, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Research and Innovation at USM, Professor Dr. Habibah A Wahab, praised the event’s ability to bring together students from diverse backgrounds, fostering camaraderie and unity.

Habibah said, “This fun run symbolizes our commitment to knowledge and giving back. Carrying a book in your backpack represents the weight of learning, and donating those books at the finish line supports literacy programmes for children in need.”

“It is also a reminder that life, much like this run, requires determination, resilience, and teamwork,” she added.

As the sun rose over USM’s picturesque campus, the run began with vibrant music and cheers filling the air.

Participants, sporting colourful and creatively decorated backpacks, embarked on scenic 5 km and 10 km trails. The energy and excitement were palpable, with laughter and joy resonating throughout the campus.

The day concluded with a dynamic closing ceremony. Cash prizes totalling RM16,000 were awarded to the top 10 runners in both the men’s and women’s categories, celebrating their outstanding performances.

Creativity shone as 20 participants were recognised for their uniquely designed backpacks, many of which featured recycled materials, promoting sustainability—a core value of USM.

A thrilling lucky draw added to the excitement, offering fantastic prizes to participants.

One of the most impactful moments was the donation of hundreds of books by participants. These books, collected by the USM Library and an educational centre, will continue to inspire and benefit the community, reflecting the event’s educational mission.

The event’s success was made possible by the dedicated efforts of project director Dr. Mozhgan Ghassemiazghandi; co-project leaders Dr. Alla Baksh Mohamed Ayub Khan and Wan Azni Wan Mohamad; project advisor Dr. Noor Alyani Nor Azazi; committees from the SoLLaT, and the Development Planning and Management Club (3P Club).

Participants praised the breathtaking beauty of USM’s campus and expressed their delight in being part of such a creative and memorable event.

The Literary Backpack Fun Run was more than just a race—it was a celebration of unity, innovation, and the vibrant spirit of USM.

Undoubtedly, it will be remembered as one of the most exciting and meaningful events of the year.

Text: Dr. Mozhgan Ghassemiazghandi/Editing: Tan Ewe Hoe/Photos: Mohd Fairus Md. Isa, Muhamad Faris Darwisy Mohammad Rafiq, Nur Amirah Abdul Aziz, & Mohamad Fuad Che Din