President Museveni Reopens Makerere University’s Rebuilt Ivory Tower

Dr. Crispus Kiyonga installed as Makerere University New Chancellor

President Yoweri Museveni has opened the restored Ivory Tower at Makerere University, four years after a devastating fire gutted the iconic structure. The grand reopening on October 2, 2024, marked a new chapter for the oldest Public University in Uganda. The newly reconstructed building now boasts a basement museum, an expanded administrative wing, a service wing, and a business center.

Speaking at the ceremony, President Museveni lauded Makerere university for restoring the historic structure, which serves as the main administrative building. “I am pleased to see the reconstruction of this iconic building, a symbol of academic excellence in Uganda and Africa,” he said.

During the same event, Museveni officiated at the installation of Dr. Crispus Kiyonga as Makerere University’s new Chancellor, taking over from Prof. Ezra Suruma. The president praised Dr. Kiyonga, describing him as “an outstanding cadre and leader in the National Resistance Movement,” and highlighted his long-standing contributions to the party since 1980.

In his acceptance speech, Dr. Kiyonga expressed his gratitude and commitment to strengthening the university’s role in advancing the country’s development agenda. “Makerere University must continue to serve as a center of excellence in knowledge generation and innovation to support Uganda’s and Africa’s transformation,” he stated.

The President emphasized the importance of universities intensifying their focus on science education, particularly in value addition and innovation. “Science education should not only teach the laws of nature but also show how to use them to transform raw materials and solve real-world problems,” he noted. Museveni argued that Africa’s challenges, including unemployment and insecurity, stem from a gap in knowledge and innovation.

On the social sciences, Museveni challenged universities to ensure that their teaching aligns with societal needs and the current realities. “Every shift in scientific advancement has impacted social organization throughout history. We must ensure that our social science teachings keep pace with these changes,” he added.

First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Janet Museveni, also attended the event and commended the university for overcoming the setback of the 2020 fire. “Today, we celebrate not just the restoration of a building, but the resilience and renewed hope for the future of Makerere University,” she said, adding that the new Chancellor’s leadership will propel the institution to greater heights.

She highlighted the government’s continuous support for the university, citing recent investments in infrastructure projects such as the School of Law Building and the refurbishment of student residences like Lumumba Hall and Mary Stuart Hall.

The First Lady also acknowledged the efforts of the university’s academics in designing the restoration. “This reconstruction project, led by experts from Makerere’s College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology, is a testament to how our academic expertise can contribute to national development,” she said.

As Uganda’s oldest and most prestigious university, Makerere has a storied legacy of producing influential leaders, including several heads of state and prominent scholars. The reconstruction of the Ivory Tower symbolizes not just the restoration of a building, but a commitment to preserving that legacy and fostering future generations of scholars.

The event was attended by key dignitaries, including Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa, ministers, and members of the academic community.