FAMReports News Desk | July 2025
The Shillings 10.5 billion renovation of Makerere University’s iconic female students’ residence, Mary Stuart Hall, has officially been completed and handed over to the university management, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to improve student accommodation.
The project, which began on July 25, 2024, was implemented by the National Enterprise Corporation Construction Works and Engineering Ltd, the commercial arm of the Ministry of Defence and Uganda Peoples Defence Forces.
NEC managing director Lt Gen James Mugira officially handed over the refurbished hall to Makerere University vice chancellor Prof Barnabas Nawangwe on July 26, 2025, in a symbolic ceremony held at the premises.
The formal commissioning of the facility is expected to be presided over by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Mrs Janet Museveni, who has been at the forefront of advocating for the restoration of dilapidated student residences across the university.
The renovated Mary Stuart Hall, which accommodates up to 521 female students, underwent a comprehensive transformation. Key upgrades included a complete overhaul of electrical and plumbing systems, renovation of kitchen and dining areas, roof replacement, upgraded toilets and showers, and installation of ramps to enhance accessibility for students with disabilities.
NEC also plans to install solar lighting systems along the hall’s corridors and construct a dedicated transformer and power line. This intervention aims to eliminate simultaneous blackouts with the adjacent Lumumba Hall, ensuring improved power reliability for the residents.
“We have completed the rehabilitation of Mary Stuart Hall, which now stands as a symbol of female empowerment and liberation,” said Mugira, reiterating NEC’s commitment to delivering quality infrastructure on time and within budget.
A celebratory cake-cutting ceremony was held, attended by university officials, NEC staff, and students. The vice chancellor applauded the government’s financial commitment and saluted the synergy between the military and civilian actors that made the project successful.
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“This is more than just a renovation. It is a reimagining of our student spaces. We must now involve our students more directly. For instance, students of fine art can contribute to interior aesthetics. Let this be a learning opportunity,” Prof Nawangwe added.
He cited the spirit of architectural passion and purpose, referencing a renowned Spanish architect who personally funded a cathedral’s construction in Barcelona as a symbol of visionary professionalism.
Dr Kenneth Ssemwogerere, the project manager and head of Makerere’s Department of Architecture, commended the university’s decision to preserve the building’s historical identity while making it conducive for modern academic life.
“Our aim was to blend heritage with functionality,” he noted, pointing out the introduction of improved lighting, ventilation, and study spaces within the historic structure.
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Mary Stuart Hall chairperson Anthea Ampaire expressed excitement on behalf of residents, thanking the university and government for their efforts. She described the renovation as “a beacon of hope” and praised the new elevator, which now enables students with disabilities to access all floors.
“It is more inclusive and dignified,” she said. “The hall feels like home again.”
Built in 1953, Mary Stuart Hall was named in honour of Bishop Stuart’s wife, who was a strong advocate for women’s education during her time in Uganda. Its first extension in 1959 included a dining hall expansion, a Junior Common Room, and research space.
Hall Culture and Identity
Mary Stuart Hall is the largest female hall of residence at Makerere University. Its unique box-like architectural shape has earned it the nickname “The Box.”
Residents proudly call themselves “Boxers,” and the hall shares a historic alliance with the neighbouring male hall, Lumumba. This cultural bond is known as “Lumbox,” a symbol of unity and student activism that dates back generations.
With the new renovation complete, Mary Stuart Hall not only honours its legacy but also positions itself as a model for student housing excellence at public institutions across Uganda.
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