President Museveni has presided over the official reopening of Makerere University’s iconic Ivory Tower following its restoration.
The historic building, which serves as the university’s main administrative centre, was severely damaged by fire in September 2020.
The reconstructed Ivory Tower now features a basement museum, an expanded administrative wing, a dedicated service area, and a business centre.
At the same event, President Museveni installed Dr. Crispus Kiyonga as Makerere University’s new Chancellor, succeeding Prof. Ezra Suruma. Dr. Kiyonga, a prominent figure in the National Resistance Movement (NRM), has been part of Uganda’s political landscape for decades.
During his remarks, President Museveni expressed his satisfaction with the university’s efforts to restore the iconic structure, recalling its significance during his time as a student.
“I was pleased to see the building restored,” Museveni said, reminiscing about past debates in the Ivory Tower, which included prominent scholars like Prof. Ali Mazrui. “We used to engage in intellectual debates about the direction of our country, debates that shaped many of us.”
The President also praised Dr. Kiyonga’s long-standing contributions to Uganda and the NRM, describing him as an “outstanding cadre” who has been integral to Uganda’s development efforts since the 1980s.
Dr. Kiyonga’s appointment comes as Makerere University continues to elevate its academic standing and embrace new leadership to guide its future.
Focus on Science
President Museveni reiterated his call for universities to enhance the teaching of science and technology, with a focus on value addition. He urged institutions to examine how they can improve the teaching of natural sciences to address Africa’s challenges.
“We need to integrate science education more deeply into how we solve societal problems. Science is about understanding the laws of nature and applying them to solve practical issues,” Museveni said.
He emphasized that this knowledge should be used to transform raw materials and create added value for Uganda’s economy.
Museveni also pointed out that Africa’s challenges, including unemployment and security concerns, stem from knowledge gaps within the region’s intelligentsia.
He encouraged universities to audit their social science programs, stressing that societal development is tied to scientific and social advancements.
First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Janet Museveni, thanked the government for supporting the restoration of the Ivory Tower. She described the structure as a symbol of the evolution of higher education in Uganda.
“The memory of September 20, 2020, is still vivid,” Janet Museveni said, reflecting on the day the iconic building burned. “Makerere’s Main Building is more than just infrastructure; it is a testament to the history of education in Uganda.”
She also congratulated Dr. Kiyonga on his appointment and praised the outgoing Chancellor, Prof. Suruma, for his dedicated service over two terms.
Janet Museveni highlighted the government’s ongoing investment in Makerere, citing recent renovations at the School of Law, Lumumba Hall, and the university hospital, which now has an operating theatre and ICU.
She also commended the establishment of the Research and Innovation Fund, aimed at driving economic growth through academic research.
In his acceptance speech, Dr. Kiyonga thanked President Museveni and the First Lady for appointing him as the new Chancellor.
He pledged to strengthen the relationship between Makerere University and the government to support Uganda’s development agenda.
“Makerere University has a duty to contribute to Africa’s transformation,” Dr. Kiyonga said, underscoring the institution’s role as a key centre of learning and innovation in Africa.
Lorna Magara, Chairperson of the Makerere University Council, congratulated Dr. Kiyonga and expressed her confidence in his ability to advance the university’s goals.
She also acknowledged the government’s critical role in restoring the Ivory Tower after the 2020 fire.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe lauded Dr. Kiyonga’s appointment, calling it a recognition of his long and distinguished career as a physician, statesman, and diplomat.
He further outlined Makerere’s aspirations to enhance science, technology, and innovation while building strong partnerships with the industry and the government.
Prof. Nawangwe also proposed the introduction of a graduate student government scholarship scheme to support the university’s academic growth.
