Museveni Greenlights Road Maintenance Unit at Makerere University
By The Public Lens
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has given the thumbs up to establish a road maintenance unit at Makerere University, a move that will bolster the training of engineering students in road maintenance.
This approval was announced during the official reopening ceremony of the iconic Main Building, also known as the Ivory Tower, and the inauguration of Dr. Crispus Kiyonga as the new Chancellor of Makerere University.
“Regarding the road unit, that’s a very good idea,” Museveni remarked. “I would definitely support that so 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’s endorsement was in response to a request by Prof. Banabas Nawagwe, who sought to enhance the training of Makerere University engineers through advanced technical and business development skills.
“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 requested.
Prof. Nawagwe explained that the unit would enable students to gain hands-on experience by maintaining university roads and those in surrounding communities like Katanga and Kikoni.
The ultimate goal, he noted, is to produce engineers capable of building robust contract farms for the country.
Additionally, Prof. Nawagwe highlighted the government’s significant investment of over UGX 50 billion in constructing the main building and other university infrastructure, including student halls of residence.
The reconstruction of the Main Building aims not only to restore its historic architecture but also to modernize facilities and enhance 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 observed.
The Main Building had suffered severe damage from a fire attributed to a faulty electrical system in September 2020, prompting extensive renovations that began in March 2022.
Government funds were primarily used for structural repairs and renovations, with Makerere University alumni and other stakeholders contributing to the restoration efforts.
The university had lost over UGX 4 billion in furniture and equipment due to the fire, necessitating a comprehensive plan to procure modern furnishings and technology for the restored space.
Dr. Crispus Kiyonga takes over as Chancellor from Prof. Ezra Suruma, who was installed on January 18, 2016.
