President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has approved the establishment of a road maintenance unit at Makerere University.
The move aims to boost the training of engineering students in maintaining university roads and surrounding communities.
He made the remarks at the official reopening ceremony of the Main Building, known as the Ivory Tower, on October 2, 2024, and the official inauguration of Dr. Crispus Kiyonga as the Chancellor of Makerere University.
“Regarding the road unit, that’s a very good idea. Road unit for. I would definitely support that so that you can have your own road unit. You teach your engineers how to make roads, how to build buildings, and so on. Practically, I totally agree with that, the President said.
The president’s approval was in response to Prof. Banabas Nawagwe’s request to enhance training of Makerere University engineers through advanced technical and business development skills so that they can compete with international firms.
“Your Excellency, consider Makerere University like a district for the allocation of a road maintenance unit as part of the district road maintenance unit program,” Prof. Nawagwe asked.
He added, “With this unit, we will be able to train our students by maintaining the university’s roads and the roads of the surrounding communities, Katanga, Kikoni, and so on. The ultimate aim is to produce engineers who will build strong contract farms for our country. I pray that this proposal is given consideration in the next financial year budget.“
Prof. Nawagwe also revealed how the government has invested more than UGX 50 billion in the construction of the main building among several infrastructures at the university, including the student halls of residence.
He noted that the reconstruction of the building is not only aimed at restoring the building’s historical architecture but also to modernize its facilities and improve safety standards.
“Out of the ruins and ashes of the old building rises a magnificent structure, built using the most modern technology, reflecting the architectural image of the former, and yet completely transformed to embrace the latest technology inside,” Prof. Nawagwe noted.
On 20th of September 2020, the main building, also known as Ivory Tower, underwent severe damage by fire that was attributed to a faulty electrical system, leading to extensive renovations that began in March 2022.
With government funds primarily used for structural repairs and renovations, Makerere University alumni and other stakeholders also contributed to the restoration efforts.
Following the fire, it was estimated that the university lost more than UGX 4 billion in furniture and equipment, necessitating a comprehensive plan to procure modern furnishings and technology for the newly restored space.
The newly installed Chancellor has replaced Prof. Ezra Suruma, who was installed as the Chancellor of Makerere University on January 18, 2016.