Lt Gen James Mugira, Managing Director of the National Enterprise Corporation (NEC), handed over the renovated Mary Stuart Hall to the Vice Chancellor, Prof Barnabas Nawangwe.
The hall, which had fallen into disrepair, was renovated by NEC Construction Works and Engineering Ltd, a subsidiary of NEC.
Prof Nawangwe expressed his gratitude to the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) for their exceptional work and thanked NEC for not disappointing him.
He praised the UPDF for their transformation over the years, from an instrument of terror to a force that now contributes to the country’s development.
He also thanked the First Lady for initiating the Presidential Directive for the renovation of all halls of residence and the Ministries of Education and Sports, and Finance, Planning, and Economic Development for their support.
Prof Anthony Mugagga, Principal College of Education and External Studies, who represented the Deputy Vice Chancellor Finance and Administration, thanked God for allowing him to witness the handover of the renovated hall.
He expressed his appreciation for the work done by NEC and the UPDF, noting that they used to think soldiers were only good for handling guns, but now they construct roads, buildings, and do excellent work.
He cited examples of the UPDF’s impressive work, such as building structures for the Pope’s visit to Namugongo in just two weeks. He also thanked the Vice Chancellor for transforming Makerere University’s structures, including the renovation of Lumumba Hall, and praised the University Council and Senate for their support.
Lt Gen Mugira, in his speech, highlighted the significance of the project and thanked the university leadership for trusting NEC with the renovation.
He noted that NEC had completed the project in record time, to high-quality standards, and at a reasonable cost.
He also emphasized the importance of proper maintenance and repair of buildings and requested the university to ensure that the renovated hall is well-maintained. Gen Mugira also cautioned the students to take care of the new facilities and not vandalize them.
The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Eng Okuk Geoffrey Bright Owera, Director of Estates. NEC has been involved in several construction projects with other universities, including Mbarara University, Gulu University, Lira University, Busitema University, Mountains of the Moon University, and Soroti University.
In a gesture of goodwill, Gen Mugira, on behalf of NEC, donated solar equipment to the university for the renovated hall. The Vice Chancellor expressed his appreciation for the renovation and the donation, and thanked NEC for their excellent work.
