Soroti University’s long-abandoned anatomy block is set to be revived after the site was officially handed over to the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) Civil Engineering Brigade.
The move follows the failure of the original contractor, RUP Engineering Ltd, to complete the project, which has been stalled for over five years.
In the 2018-2019 financial year, the government allocated shs5.2 billion for constructing the anatomy block, a critical component of the university’s medical training program.
However, despite 90% of the funds being paid, RUP Engineering Ltd abandoned the site without explanation, leaving the structure incomplete and derailing the university's development plans.
Professor Ikoja, the Vice Chancellor of Soroti University, expressed his frustration over the previous contractor's actions but is optimistic about the project's revival.
"I want students here by October next year," he said, emphasizing the urgency of the work.
With an additional shs14 billion injected by the government to complete the block, General Peter Elwelu, head of the Service Delivery Monitoring Unit in the Office of the President, officially handed the site over to the UPDF during a ceremony.
Representing Vice President Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Alupo, General Elwelu expressed confidence in the UPDF's ability to complete the project.
"It's ours now, and with the UPDF taking over, I have no doubt because we are a disciplined force," he stated.
The UPDF Engineering Brigade is expected to complete the anatomy block within a year, providing vital infrastructure to support the university’s medical training programs.
General Elwelu emphasized the government’s commitment to accountability and efficient service delivery.
"When we commit to doing something, we mean it, and we ensure it is completed," Elwelu affirmed.
The completion of the anatomy block is crucial for the university, enhancing its capacity to train future medical professionals and significantly benefiting the Teso sub-region and Uganda at large.
The project's abandonment by RUP Engineering Ltd has been a major source of frustration for university staff and students.
The government’s decision to involve the UPDF in completing stalled projects reflects a broader trend in Uganda, where the military is increasingly called upon to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of infrastructure projects.
With the handover now formalized, Soroti University anticipates a new phase of development, bringing hope and renewed momentum to its medical training programs.
