Makerere University Receives Rehabilitated Mary Stuart Hall from NEC in Colourful Handover Ceremony
The Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, received the refurbished facility on behalf of the university. The ceremony, held at the iconic all-female residence, was graced by the Managing Director of NEC, Lt. Gen. James Mugira, whose presence underscored the successful partnership between the public university and the national contractor.
In a momentous ceremony held on the afternoon of Friday, July 25, 2025, Makerere University officially received the newly rehabilitated Mary Stuart Hall of Residence from the Contractor – National Enterprise Corporation (NEC). The event marked a significant milestone in the university’s efforts to improve student welfare through the modernization of key infrastructure.
The Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, received the refurbished facility on behalf of the university. The ceremony, held at the iconic all-female residence, was graced by the Managing Director of NEC, Lt. Gen. James Mugira, whose presence underscored the successful partnership between the public university and the national contractor.
Also present were members of the project implementation team led by Arch. Dr. Kenneth Ssemwogerere, Head of the Department of Architecture at the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT), Makerere University. Representatives from the Makerere Students Guild, the Dean of Students’ Office, and various members of the University Management witnessed the symbolic handover.
The rehabilitation project, which commenced on July 26, 2024, was executed at a cost of UGX 10.5 billion, underscoring the university’s commitment to investing in student accommodation. Mary Stuart Hall, popularly known as "Box," is one of Makerere's most historic female halls of residence and has housed thousands of students since its establishment in 1947.
The comprehensive renovation works included structural strengthening, interior and exterior refurbishments, plumbing and electrical systems upgrades, enhancement of sanitation facilities, improved accessibility, and the installation of modern security and fire safety systems. The project aimed not only to preserve the hall’s historical legacy but also to align it with modern standards of comfort, safety, and functionality.
Speaking during the handover, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe expressed deep gratitude to the Government of Uganda, particularly the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni, and President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, for their unwavering support in the realisation of the funds necessary for the project.
“This achievement would not have been possible without the strategic guidance and support from the Ministry of Education and Sports, and the intervention of His Excellency the President. We thank them for prioritizing Makerere and the welfare of our students,” Prof. Nawangwe remarked.
He also praised NEC for their professional execution of the project, noting that the quality of work matched the university’s expectations. “We are proud to work with a competent national contractor like NEC. This is a demonstration of what can be achieved when we rely on local expertise,” he added.
NEC Commits to Continued Collaboration
In his remarks, Lt. Gen. James Mugira, the Managing Director of NEC, reaffirmed the corporation’s commitment to supporting the development of public infrastructure, especially in the education sector. He congratulated Makerere University on its centennial legacy and commended the project team for their diligence and attention to detail.
“This handover is not just about bricks and mortar. It represents our collective belief in the future of Uganda’s young women and our role in creating a conducive learning and living environment,” Gen. Mugira stated.
Student leaders and representatives from Mary Stuart Hall expressed excitement about the improved facilities and pledged to preserve and maintain them for future generations. A representative from the Students Guild said, “This hall has been a symbol of empowerment and resilience for decades. With these upgrades, it will continue to nurture the dreams and leadership of Makerere women.”
The successful rehabilitation of Mary Stuart Hall is part of Makerere University’s broader infrastructure improvement strategy, aimed at enhancing the quality of academic and residential life. As Uganda’s premier institution of higher learning, Makerere is positioning itself to compete globally while meeting the evolving needs of its student community.
The ceremony concluded with a guided tour of the renovated hall and a symbolic ribbon-cutting moment that was received with applause and celebration from students, staff, and alumni alike.
