Makerere University re-opens historic Mary Stuart Hall, says renovated female students’ residence to offer environment for academic excellence

Makerere University marked a significant milestone today with the official re-opening of Mary Stuart Hall, a moment described by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, as “momentous.” The ceremony, presided over by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Janet K. Museveni, celebrated the transformation of the institution’s oldest and largest girls’ hall, promising a renewed environment for academic excellence.

Prof. Nawangwe underscored the historical significance of the hall, revealing it is named after Mary Stuart, the esteemed wife of Uganda’s first Anglican Archbishop. Mary Stuart was a formidable champion for the right of women to be admitted to Makerere University, making the hall a symbol of female empowerment and educational access.

Recalling the hall’s previous state, Prof. Nawangwe painted a grim picture of disrepair. During her 2020 tour of the halls of residence, the First Lady herself observed the deplorable conditions, which included a lift that had been non-functional for half a century, dark and uninviting corridors, and a perpetually leaking roof.

The extensive renovation, costing UGX 10.5 billion, was a testament to efficient collaboration. Undertaken by the National Enterprise Corporation (NEC) in partnership with Makerere’s Estates & Works Department and consultants from the College of Engineering, built environment, and design, the project was completed in exactly one year.

The works have transformed Mary Stuart Hall into a modern, conducive living and learning environment, boasting state-of-the-art facilities including a modern, fully functional lift, improved lighting throughout, upgraded pantries, contemporary washrooms, dedicated laundry facilities, a spacious reading room, and a refurbished senior common room. Critically, NEC has also generously offered to install a solar lighting system and comprehensively landscape the grounds, further enhancing the hall’s appeal and sustainability.

Prof. Nawangwe expressed profound gratitude, acknowledging President Yoweri Museveni for his pivotal directive to renovate all student halls of residence, and the First Lady for her unwavering support in making this particular renovation a reality.

He extended his appreciation to the University Council, Management, the Estates and Works Department, particularly Engineer Ezra Sekadde, the consultants led by Arch. Dr. Kenneth Semogerere, and especially the contractor, National Enterprise Corporation (NEC-UPDF). He specifically lauded General Mugira, the CEO of NEC works, for delivering quality work without demanding any cost variations – a rare feat in such large-scale projects.

Addressing the hall’s future residents, Prof. Nawangwe conveyed a powerful message: “I personally send out a message to all female students who will reside in Mary Stuart, to let them know that they are valued, supported, and empowered to reach their greatest potential while at Makerere University.” He firmly stated that with the modernised facilities, there is now “no reason for residents not to excel in their studies.”

Looking ahead, the Vice Chancellor revealed plans to renovate Complex Hall for Girls (CCE) once the necessary funds are released by the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, signaling a continued commitment to improving student accommodation across the university.

However, the Chairperson of the Makerere University Council, Magara Lorna, used the momentous occasion to highlight a critical ongoing challenge. “Mama, I make this passionate appeal: let us prioritise the continued expansion of student accommodation infrastructure. Our students deserve safe, accessible, and conducive living spaces that complement their academic pursuits,” she urged in a message to the First Lady.

Magara underscored the stark reality facing Makerere’s rapidly growing student community. “While we celebrate today’s achievement, we must acknowledge the reality facing our growing university community. With over 30,000 students, we currently accommodate only 13% of our total enrollment. The majority of our students seek accommodation in external facilities, some of which are distant from the campus or fail to meet required health and safety standards.”

Concluding her remarks, Magara affirmed the broader significance of the day: “Today marks not just the completion of a renovation project but also the realisation of our shared commitment to providing quality infrastructure that enhances the learning experience for our students.”

The re-opening of Mary Stuart Hall thus stands as a dual testament: a celebration of a historical landmark meticulously restored, and a reaffirmation of Makerere University’s enduring commitment to fostering an environment where every student, especially its female residents, can thrive and achieve their academic aspirations.