Soroti University commissions sh1.2b main gate
Prof. John Robert Ikoja Odongo, the vice chancellor, said the prolonged opening of the gate had nearly sparked unrest among students. He added that the only component still missing was a holding area for impounded vehicles.
Soroti University main gate entrance. (Credit: Delux Emmy Alomu)
SOROTI - Soroti University has commissioned its long-anticipated main gate, a sh1.2b facility equipped with security and access-control systems and designed to improve safety and movement at the institution.
The main gate features a 60-metre wall fence, a security house with a detention room, 13 CCTV surveillance cameras, solar power systems, mechanical installations, monitoring screens, computers, walkways, gate-control facilities and provisions for persons with disabilities.
The project was executed by the National Housing and Construction Company Limited (NHCC), with works commencing on September 28, 2025, and concluding on May 15, 2026. Government funding supported the development.
The project was initially scheduled for completion within six months, but the university said election-related issues caused delays and resulted in an extension of the completion period.
During the commissioning ceremony on September 25, 2026, university officials said the contractor had received approximately sh1.1b, representing 88.3% of the total contract sum, while the remaining amount would be paid after identified defects had been rectified.
He said the facility enhances institutional security and access control while contributing to the university's architectural identity through its design.
Prof. John Robert Ikoja Odongo, the vice chancellor, said the prolonged opening of the gate had nearly sparked unrest among students. He added that the only component still missing was a holding area for impounded vehicles.
Prof John Robert Ikoja Odongo and other leaders commissioning the main gate of Soroti University on Friday September 25th, 2026. (Credit: Delux Emmy Alomu)
To manage wear and tear, Ikoja proposed that vehicles entering the university be charged sh5,000, except university and Government vehicles. He said the fees would help reduce reliance on Government funding.
He further said the university was investing in infrastructure expansion, with upcoming projects including a national hospital, a six-storey central teaching facility, a new School of Engineering and Technology, accommodation for 2,000 students and a police station.
Ikoja said the commissioning of the main gate marked a significant milestone for the university by providing a secure, controlled and fully serviced entrance.
He also said the handover and opening of the main gate had initiated a six-month Defects Liability Period, during which the contractor would address any remaining issues on the snag list.
Derrick Mutegyeki, the deputy chief executive officer responsible for finance and administration at NHCC, said the company's goal was to provide students with practical skills by allowing them to observe real-world applications.
He said the gate was built to last more than 80 years and would help regulate people entering and leaving the university, ensuring that those accessing the institution contributed positively to Uganda.
Sylvester Wanjuzi Wasieba, chairperson of the NHCC Board of Directors, assured the university that the company would continue monitoring the gate and address any issues that might arise.
Christine Alobo, the Prime Minister of the Soroti University Guild, welcomed the opening of the gate, particularly as students juggle busy schedules and prepare for upcoming examinations.
She highlighted the challenges students faced while using an improvised gate during construction and called for the remaining open sections of the university fence to be secured for the safety of students and staff.