Renovation works at the Makerere Main Administration building have been completed and the site handed back to the University by the Contractor – Ambitious Construction Company Ltd. The works, which started on Monday 13^th August 2012 included both internal and external renovations of the Main building, that have left the structure sparkling. The building has maintained its trademark off-white walls and blue windows, but the walls have a trendy rough texture finishing, that has left many looking on with admiration. The gigantic structure is a spectacular sight as one approaches along the reconstructed University Road, towering high, as if in emphasis of the 90 year old Institution’s greatness.

The interior walls have a touch of green and black, reflective of University colours. The scope of works included; roof  tile repairs and cleaning, repairs and water proofing of flat roof tops, Main Hall and Senior Common Room renovation and modification, toilets overhaul, repairs of hallways and lighting, masonry and painting works, drainage and compound improvement, all at a cost of approximately 500 Million Shillings.

The site was handed over to Prof. Ikoja Odongo, the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration, on the 5^th December 2012 after thorough inspection of the works.

“On behalf of Management, I am pleased to state that the contractor has done a great job. We are using internally generated funds in these renovations.  The Management remains committed to renovation and rehabilitation of infrastructure within the university.  These renovations are not just about publicity. They raise public confidence in the quality of infrastructure at Makerere University and we shall continue with them,” said Prof. Ikoja.

The Project Coordinator of Ambitious Construction Company Ltd, Ruthiralingam Chelliah, commended Makerere University for being a good client and expressed willingness to take up more works if called upon. “We have done what was required of us as par the contract, and are happy to hand over the Main Building. Makerere University has been a very good client, and we appreciate the professional conduct of all the people we dealt with,” he said.

The renovation works have also incorporated staff houses in and around the University. A number of houses have already been renovated and are ready for occupancy. A case in point is House 138 Pool Road, which has since been handed over after six months of undergoing comprehensive renovation. Another house 145 along Mvule Lane is nearing completion.

According to the Director Estates Department, Fred Nuwagaba, renovations within the University need to be carried out periodically to minimize the wear and tear of infrastructure, whenever funds are available.