Makerere University is celebrating a momentous occasion today October 2, as it officially reopens its iconic main administration building, affectionately known as the ‘Ivory Tower,’ nearly four years after a devastating fire inflicted significant damage on this historical structure.
The ‘Ivory Tower,’ an enduring symbol of Makerere University and a prominent feature of its Kampala campus, has long been recognized as a beacon of educational excellence and national pride. The building suffered severe damage in a fire that broke out in 2020, sparking immediate concerns about the loss of such an integral part of the university’s identity. In response, the university embarked on an extensive restoration project to revive this architectural masterpiece.
Today’s reopening ceremony will be graced by the presence of President Yoweri Museveni and Minister of Education and Sports, Janet Museveni, underscoring the significance of this event not just for the university but for the nation as a whole. The occasion marks a return to normalcy for the university community, which has long awaited the restoration of this landmark building.
On-site reports indicate that workers were diligently applying the final touches to the building ahead of the ceremony, while university officials underwent COVID-19 testing at the nearby Freedom Square. This proactive measure highlights the university’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all attendees during this celebratory event.
Ritah Namisango, the Principal Communications Officer for Makerere University, expressed her enthusiasm about the restoration, highlighting that the exterior of the building has been returned to its original grandeur, while modern design elements and enhanced safety features have been integrated into the interior. This dual approach not only honors the building’s rich history but also ensures it meets contemporary standards for safety and accessibility.
Significant upgrades have been made throughout the structure. Traditional wooden floors have been replaced with durable tiles and terrazzo, a necessary change aimed at mitigating fire risks associated with the wooden materials. The restoration also emphasizes accessibility improvements, featuring new pathways for persons with disabilities and a renovated elevator, making the building more inclusive for all members of the university community.
In addition to these changes, the building’s new design includes robust concrete walls, replacing the former plywood partitions that were susceptible to damage. The beloved bell, which has been a cherished feature of the ‘Ivory Tower’ for generations, has been restored and is once again ringing at the top of each hour, signaling the rhythm of university life.
The tragic fire incident that led to this extensive restoration was attributed to a short circuit resulting from a faulty electrical system, according to a report compiled by the Criminal Investigations Department and the Ministry of Works. The swift response from the university and government officials ensured that plans for restoration were promptly set in motion.
In the aftermath of the fire, the Ugandan government allocated 21 billion Shillings for the restoration, with financial contributions sourced from regional governments, private enterprises, alumni, and individual donors. This widespread support reflects the national importance of the university and the ‘Ivory Tower’ as a symbol of higher education in Uganda.
Initially, the restoration project aimed for completion in time for the university’s centenary celebrations in October 2022. However, progress was hindered by unforeseen challenges, including the need to demolish the existing structure, which engineers deemed unsafe. Satvinder Saini, Director of Excel Construction Ltd., the firm overseeing the restoration, noted that the demolition process was prolonged to salvage certain surviving architectural features. Further complications arose when the basement, housing critical university operations, was found to be in disrepair, necessitating a complete rebuild.
Historically, the foundation of the main administration building, showcasing distinctive 20th-century British architectural design, was laid on November 3, 1938, by Prince Henry, Duke of Gloucester, who represented King George VI. The construction, funded by the Colonial Development Bourse, faced significant delays due to material shortages during World War II, and it was ultimately completed in 1941 under the leadership of Mr. George C. Turner, then Principal of Makerere College.
The blue and white structure has become synonymous with Makerere University, regarded as a national treasure and an integral part of Uganda’s heritage. The ‘Ivory Tower’ has been featured on postage stamps and postcards and has garnered recognition from UNESCO as a heritage site. Additionally, it has appeared on various currency notes, including the 5,000 shilling note from 1980 to 1987 and the 500 shilling note issued by the NRA government in 1987.
As the university community and the nation gather to celebrate this momentous occasion, the reopening of the ‘Ivory Tower’ represents not only a revival of an important historical landmark but also a renewed commitment to educational excellence and progress for future generations.