Makerere University’s oldest and largest female hall of residence, Mary Stuart Hall, has reopened its doors after a UGX 10.5 billion renovation, marking a milestone in Uganda’s higher education infrastructure development.
The refurbished facility, commissioned by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni, now stands as a modern, inclusive, and dignified home for over 500 female students.
While reopening the hall on Friday in the presence of students, staff, and dignitaries, Hon. Janet Museveni described the moment as a testament to divine faithfulness and the government’s commitment to education.
“Standing here today is testament to the faithfulness of God,” she said. “He says in His word that ‘My people will rebuild the ancient ruins and places long devastated.’ We have seen God rebuild and even lay new foundations at this great institution.”
She emphasised that the project was part of a broader, methodical plan to upgrade all halls of residence at Makerere. “The renovation of Mary Stuart Hall is not an isolated project but part of a broader, systematic plan to upgrade all the other halls of residence as well. The NRM Government believes in prioritising projects as resources become available to ensure sustainable development,” she explained.
The First Lady urged both students and management to safeguard the investment. “As we hand over this magnificent facility, I urge the student body to be good stewards of this investment, and the management to be mindful of proper maintenance. This Hall is more than just a place of residence — it is where responsible citizens and future leaders are moulded.”
Modern Comforts in a Historic Hall
The oldest hall of residence at Makerere University, Mary Stuart Hall was completed in 1953. It was the first female hall of residence at the university and remains the largest. Named after the wife of Bishop Simon Cyril Edgar Stuart of the Diocese of Uganda, the hall has long symbolised the empowerment of women in higher education.
Mary Stuart advocated for women education from 1932 with her endeavours culminating into the first admission of female students at the then Makerere College in 1945. It is on this foundation that the hall stands with its motto stating “Train a woman, a nation trained”.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe recalled its recent decline before renovation. “Like its neighbour Lumumba, Mary Stuart Hall was in a sorry state of disrepair before its renovation,” he said. “The lift had not worked for five decades, the corridors were dark, and the roof leaked. That was the state of the Hall when Maama toured it in 2020. But see what God has done.”
The renovated facility now features a new lift, well-lit corridors, modern washrooms, laundry facilities, a reading room, a senior common room, and redesigned pantries. The National Enterprise Corporation (NEC) also pledged to install a solar lighting system and landscape the grounds.
“In a few words, this is a modern student’s hall, as good as any I have seen in advanced economies. 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,” Prof. Nawangwe said.
Strategic Investments in Higher Education
Makerere University Council Chairperson, Mrs. Lorna Magara, said the renovation was part of a larger transformation in the institution’s infrastructure and research capacity. “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,” she said.
She pointed to a 132% increase in the university’s development budget over the last seven years, which has enabled landmark projects including the restoration of the Main Building, the construction of the School of Law, and upgrades to Lumumba Hall. Research funding has also grown from zero to UGX 20 billion annually since 2016/2017.
Mary Stuart Hall now accommodates 512 female students, up from 376. But Mrs. Magara highlighted the accommodation gap, with only 13% of Makerere’s 30,000 students housed on campus.
“Mama, I make this passionate appeal: let us prioritise the continued expansion of student accommodation. Our students deserve safe, accessible, and conducive living spaces that complement their academic pursuits,” she urged.
More Than Bricks and Mortar
Representing the student body, Makerere University Guild President, Ssentamu Churchill James, described the day as symbolic of the institution’s enduring spirit.
“Today is a reminder that Makerere University is more than bricks and mortar. It is a living institution of excellence, a system that transforms lives, and a symbol of national pride,” he said.
He called on students to protect the renewed facility and the legacy it represents. “This opening is more than a physical rehabilitation — it is a restoration of pride and purpose, a reaffirmation of the visionary and resilient spirit that has carried this institution for generations.”
A Hall Chair’s Pride and Gratitude
Chairlady of Mary Stuart Hall, Ampaire Anthea, a fourth-year medical student, spoke with emotion about the hall’s transformation.
“Since its last major refurbishment, Mary Stuart Hall has been reborn, rebuilt, and revitalised. This renewal goes beyond walls and roofs; it is about rebuilding our spirit and community,” she said.
She reminded attendees of the hall’s motto: “Train our women and make them dreams.” “As we celebrate, let us continue to empower women, support their aspirations, and provide them with opportunities they deserve. In doing so, we will build a stronger, more prosperous nation.”
