Kampala, Uganda — Makerere University today celebrated a major milestone in its ongoing infrastructure development efforts as the National Enterprise Corporation (NEC) officially handed over the newly renovated Mary Stuart Hall. The facelift of the iconic female residence hall is a significant step toward improving student accommodation and enhancing the living conditions of thousands of students at Uganda’s oldest and most prestigious university.
The handover ceremony, held this afternoon at the university’s main campus, was presided over by NEC Managing Director, Lt. Gen. James Mugira, alongside senior members of the Makerere University administration. The renovation project, which received crucial funding from the Ugandan government, is part of a broader initiative to upgrade student accommodation facilities across the university.
Mary Stuart Hall, affectionately known as “Box” by students, is a historic part of Makerere’s campus, having long served as a cornerstone of student life and sisterhood. The newly renovated facility promises to significantly improve the living standards and comfort of students residing there. The upgrades include modernized rooms, improved sanitary facilities, enhanced security, and better recreational spaces, ensuring that students can thrive in a conducive academic environment.
In a statement after the handover, Makerere University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, expressed his deep appreciation for the successful completion of the project. “I thank NEC for a job very well done and the Government for allocating the resources that made this possible,” Prof. Nawangwe shared in a post on social media, highlighting the positive impact the renovation will have on the university’s student community.
The facelift of Mary Stuart Hall is not just a physical transformation; it is seen as a symbol of the university's commitment to modernizing its facilities while preserving its historical heritage. The hall, one of the oldest residence buildings on campus, has been a central part of the university’s rich traditions and is considered a vital space for nurturing academic excellence and student unity.
The renovation of Mary Stuart Hall is part of NEC’s broader efforts to contribute to national development. As the commercial arm of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), NEC has increasingly taken on large-scale civil works projects, ranging from renovations at educational institutions to road construction and public infrastructure improvements across the country.
Lt. Gen. James Mugira, the NEC Managing Director, emphasized the importance of such projects in strengthening national development goals. “The renovation of Mary Stuart Hall is a demonstration of NEC’s commitment to improving the quality of life for Ugandans, particularly in the education sector. We are proud to play a part in the transformation of Makerere University, which is a symbol of excellence and pride for our nation,” he remarked during the ceremony.
The renovation of Mary Stuart Hall forms part of Makerere University’s broader plans to modernize its infrastructure, aiming to provide students with world-class facilities. The university is also working on additional projects that will address the increasing demand for accommodation, improve student services, and provide state-of-the-art learning environments.
While the renovation project was largely funded by the government, the university’s leadership has been proactive in seeking partnerships with local and international organizations to further enhance campus facilities. Future plans include upgrades to other residence halls, classrooms, and administrative offices to keep pace with the evolving needs of students and the academic community.
As the “Box” now stands revitalized, it symbolizes the ongoing efforts to elevate Makerere University’s status as a leading institution of higher learning in Africa. With improved living conditions, students are expected to enjoy a better quality of life, which will undoubtedly contribute to their academic success and personal growth.