The first quarter of 2026 builds on the strong momentum established at the end of 2025 for procurement activities supporting the MSP. Following an intense period of market engagement and the publication of numerous calls for tender, the first three months of the year marks a significant transition, from planning to execution.
Several major contracts have now been awarded, enabling construction activities to begin on site. In February and March, contracts for structural work, formwork, and concrete for Pavilion L were finalized, with construction scheduled to begin shortly a key milestone in the project鈥檚 progression. In parallel, calls for tender for similar work on Pavilions A and E were issued in April, with contract awards expected by June.
On the electromechanical side, all first quarter calls for tender, including plumbing, have been completed and awarded. The contract for the replacement of windows across Pavilions A, E, and L is also now underway.
Site activity continues to progress steadily. Rock excavation, dynamiting and geothermal drilling are advancing to support upcoming construction phases, highlighting the level of coordination required across multiple disciplines.
Behind these milestones is a sustained procurement effort. Procurement Services has maintained close and continuous engagement with the market, before, during, and after each call for tender, to ensure clarity of requirements and encourage strong supplier participation. This approach is delivering results: tenders are attracting a high level of interest, creating a competitive environment that supports both pricing and quality outcomes for the University.
Sustainability is at the heart of procurement strategies
Sustainability remains fully embedded in procurement strategies. Building on initiatives introduced in 2025, Procurement Services continues to work closely with sustainability experts to integrate clear requirements into tender documents, particularly in areas such as material selection, environmental performance, and carbon reduction. This not only supports institutional objectives but also encourages suppliers to bring forward innovative and responsible solutions.
Looking ahead, this year represents one of the most demanding phases of the project. A total of 52 calls for tenders are planned throughout the year, requiring ongoing coordination across teams and stakeholders.
During this first quarter of 2026, several calls for tender are currently issued on SEAO, including:
- Curtain wall and window replacement (Pavilion N)
- Precast concrete panels and staircases (Pavilion N)
- Fire protection and fire alarm systems (Pavilions A, E, L, and N)
- Structural and reinforcing steel (Pavilions A and E)
- Formwork and concrete works (Pavilions A and E)
- Waterproofing and foundation insulation (Pavilion N)
- Control systems (Pavilions A, E, L, and N)
To further optimize value, a two-stage procurement approach has been adopted for control systems. This method combines qualitative evaluation with total acquisition cost analysis, allowing for more informed decision-making that considers long-term performance and lifecycle costs. This process is carried out in close collaboration with Facilities Management and Ancillary Services (FMAS), ensuring a fully integrated review.
As reflected in this approach, Procurement Services is not limited to a support role but serves as a strategic lever essential to the success of the project. Through its ability to structure the market, mobilize suppliers, and ensure rigorous and transparent processes, the team directly contributes to securing costs, schedules, and the quality of deliverables.
In a context as demanding as 2026, this rigor, combined with close collaboration among all stakeholders, will be critical. Procurement Services remains fully mobilized to support the project at every stage, with a constant objective: to create sustainable value for the University and contribute to the collective success of the Sustainability Park Project.
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