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February 2010 events

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February 2010

26th February 2010: The CIT Mentor Series:

CIT has continuously received feedback from the private sector and specifically requesting the faculty to invite people from the Private Sector to come and mentor the students to expose them to what the industry expects of them. This series featured Mr. Robert Kabushenga, CEO, Vision Group of Companies.

23rd – 24th February 2010: Consultative Workshop of DeLPHE Project:

The Consulatative workshop of DelPHE Project : Collaboration of School of Education, University of Nairobi , Department of Religious Studies, Faculty of Arts; Makerere University and the Center for Peace and Reconciliation Studies, Coventry University was held at the Conference Hall, Economic Policy Research Center, Makerere University.

22nd February 2010: Mak/ECNU MoU signing ceremony:

Makerere University and the East China Normal University (ECNU) signed a Memorandum of Understanding and Cooperation aimed at strengthening the cooperation in education, science, engineering and technological transfer between the two universities. Chinese Ambassador to Uganda H.E. Sun Heping expressed represented Peoples Republic of China at the signing ceremony held in the Council Room, Main Administration Building, Makerere University.

22nd February 2010: The 26th MUBS Public Lecture:

The School runs a Public Lecture Scheme as part of its activities to increase the diversity of business management among its clients and as part of its corporate social responsibility. The 26th MUBS Public Lecture was held under the theme:Innovations and Business Growth in the MUBS Conference Hall. The presenters were; Mr. Patrick Bitature (Chairman Simba Group and Uganda Investment Authority) and Mr. Jamil Sewanyana (Lecturer, Department of Entrepreneurship, MUBS).

20th February 2010: International Mother Tongue Day Celebrations:

This day has been designated by UNESCO as Mother Tongue Day and is observed worldwide. This was the third time the Institute of Languages was celebrating this day. The theme of the day was “Mother Tongue to Foster Unity in Diversity” Activities of the day included; reciting of poems and proverbs in mother tongues, reading of essays, singing and dancing among others, held at the Department of Food Science & Tech Conference Hall

19th February 2010: Launch of the Makerere Linux Chapter:

Every third Friday of the month the Linux User Group-Uganda (LUG) gathers at their LUG Meeting. The monthly meeting at the Makerere Faculty of ICT also served as a lunch for their Makerere Chapter. Speakers from DSMagic and AG Commons were on hand to inspire the students.

18th February 2010: Mak-SIDA PhaseIII Research Cooperation signing ceremony:

SIDA has been supporting research in Makerere University since 2000. A number of units including Faculties of Agriculture, Social Sciences, Technology, College of Health Sciences, and School of Graduate Studies, the University Library and the Directorate of Communication and Information Technology Support have since benefited through two phases of support which came to an end in December 2009 2009. The support to the tune of 181 million SEK has benefited over 150 students on PhD programmes and 40 students on Master degree programme. The signing ceremony of the Specific Agreement on Research Cooperation between Makerere University and Sida (represented by the Embassy of Sweden) took place in the Council Room, Main Administration Building.

17th February 2010: Public Dialogue – Desirable Institutions:

The Faculty of Social Sciences, Makerere University, held a Public Dialogue on the theme “Desirable Institutions, or Desirable Leaders. What does Uganda need for development?” at the Lower Conference Hall, Senate Building.

17th February 2010: CHS Needs Assessment Dissemination Workshop:

Makerere University and Johns Hopkins University have undertaken in a Twinning Program to inform and guide a 10-year strategic initiative to build Makerere University's sustainable capacity to improve health outcomes in Uganda and the region. As part of the activities, the MUJHU Twinning Program carried out a Needs Assessment for the College of Health Sciences. The half-day dissemination workshop took place at the Imperial Royale Hotel, Kampala.

16th February 2010: Public Lecture by Ambassador Demetrios J. Marantis:

Ambassador Demetrios J. Marantis, Deputy U.S. Trade representative gave a public lecture entitled “United States – African Trade and Investment in the 21st Century” held in the Conference Hall, Department of Food Science and Technology from 2.30 – 4.00p.m.

13th Feb – 3rd March 2010 2010: MTSIFA Staff Art Exhibition:

Fourteen Members of Staff at the Margaret Trowell School of Industrial and Fine Arts Exhibited their works at the “Different but One” exhibition, held at the Makerere Art Gallery.

12th February 2010: Consultative Workshop for the Development and use of Pozzolanic Materials Research:

The Department of Construction Economics and Management of Makerere University received a grant from the Uganda National Council for Science and Technology, under the World Bank's Millennium Science Initiative programs, towards research in the development and use of pozzolanic materials. The Department’s one-day consultative workshop was held at the Protea Hotel, Kampala.

12th February 2010: Mak/UMEME MoU on Bulk Metering signed:

The University now benefits from a lowered average tariff at the main campus, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between UMEME and Makerere University.

11th February 2010: Launch of the GRACE book:

The Gender Research in Africa into ICTs for Empowerment (GRACE) is a project that was initiated in 2005 with an aim to provide context specific data on how women in Africa use information communication technologies (ICTs) to improve their lives, barriers that prevent them from accessing and utilisation of ICTS and how they surmount these barriers. With support from the International Development Research Center (IDRC), GRACE evolved into an African network of gender and ICT researchers involving 14 research teams in 12 different African countries including Uganda. The findings from the first research phase were captured and published in a book titled “African Women and ICTs: Investigating Technology, Gender and Empowerment” and launched at the Faculty of Food Science Conference Room, Makerere University.

10th February 2010: A Student Portforlio’s Presentation, CHS:

The student Portfolio for Makerere was designed in partnership with students and staff of the College of Health Sciences and was piloted this year. Other Institutions at Makerere University such as The School of Graduate Studies, Faculty of Computing & IT and the Directorate of Human Resources Management are in the process of piloting it. The CHS presentation was held in the Davis Lecture Theatre, College of Health Sciences

9th – 11th February 2010: MEDI-SHARE National Conference.

MEDI-SHARE is an initiative taken by a consortium of Institutions: CINECA of University of Bologna Italy and Pharmacy schools in three Higher Education Institutions in East Africa; Makerere University, Nairobi University and Muhimbili University of Health Sciences. The project involves a collection of patient information of three conditions; HIV/AIDS, Malaria and Tuberculosis. The software and platform for managing this information has been developed by CINECA in conjuction with Almalaurea of Italy. The Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, Makerere University organized the three-day workshop at the Imperial Royale Hotel Kampala.

1st February 2010: ICPAU Results Release Ceremony

The Vice Chancellor was invited to officiate over the release of the December 2009 results by the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Uganda (ICPAU). As part of her Corporate Social Responsibility, Makerere University provides the ICPAU with facilities for conducting practical IT examinations, a relationship which dates back to 1997.

1st February 2010: 2nd Vice Chancellors Media briefing

The 2nd monthly media briefing featured the School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences and the School of Graduate Studies. The Vice Chancellor made presentations on the commencement of online registration or students from 1st February 2010, Electronic feedback to parents and guardians on student progress, the putting in place of a Public Relations and Communications Board, to improve the University’s Communications function, and the Alumni Development Fund Account to help raise funds and undertake major projects aimed at creating endowment for Makerere University.

February 2010

26th February 2010: The CIT Mentor Series:

CIT has continuously received feedback from the private sector and specifically requesting the faculty to invite people from the Private Sector to come and mentor the students to expose them to what the industry expects of them. This series featured Mr. Robert Kabushenga, CEO, Vision Group of Companies.

23rd – 24th February 2010: Consultative Workshop of DeLPHE Project:

The Consulatative workshop of DelPHE Project : Collaboration of School of Education, University of Nairobi , Department of Religious Studies, Faculty of Arts; Makerere University and the Center for Peace and Reconciliation Studies, Coventry University was held at the Conference Hall, Economic Policy Research Center, Makerere University.

22nd February 2010: Mak/ECNU MoU signing ceremony:

Makerere University and the East China Normal University (ECNU) signed a Memorandum of Understanding and Cooperation aimed at strengthening the cooperation in education, science, engineering and technological transfer between the two universities. Chinese Ambassador to Uganda H.E. Sun Heping expressed represented Peoples Republic of China at the signing ceremony held in the Council Room, Main Administration Building, Makerere University.

22nd February 2010: The 26th MUBS Public Lecture:

The School runs a Public Lecture Scheme as part of its activities to increase the diversity of business management among its clients and as part of its corporate social responsibility. The 26th MUBS Public Lecture was held under the theme:Innovations and Business Growth in the MUBS Conference Hall. The presenters were; Mr. Patrick Bitature (Chairman Simba Group and Uganda Investment Authority) and Mr. Jamil Sewanyana (Lecturer, Department of Entrepreneurship, MUBS).

20th February 2010: International Mother Tongue Day Celebrations:

This day has been designated by UNESCO as Mother Tongue Day and is observed worldwide. This was the third time the Institute of Languages was celebrating this day. The theme of the day was “Mother Tongue to Foster Unity in Diversity” Activities of the day included; reciting of poems and proverbs in mother tongues, reading of essays, singing and dancing among others, held at the Department of Food Science & Tech Conference Hall

19th February 2010: Launch of the Makerere Linux Chapter:

Every third Friday of the month the Linux User Group-Uganda (LUG) gathers at their LUG Meeting. The monthly meeting at the Makerere Faculty of ICT also served as a lunch for their Makerere Chapter. Speakers from DSMagic and AG Commons were on hand to inspire the students.

18th February 2010: Mak-SIDA PhaseIII Research Cooperation signing ceremony:

SIDA has been supporting research in Makerere University since 2000. A number of units including Faculties of Agriculture, Social Sciences, Technology, College of Health Sciences, and School of Graduate Studies, the University Library and the Directorate of Communication and Information Technology Support have since benefited through two phases of support which came to an end in December 2009 2009. The support to the tune of 181 million SEK has benefited over 150 students on PhD programmes and 40 students on Master degree programme. The signing ceremony of the Specific Agreement on Research Cooperation between Makerere University and Sida (represented by the Embassy of Sweden) took place in the Council Room, Main Administration Building.

17th February 2010: Public Dialogue – Desirable Institutions:

The Faculty of Social Sciences, Makerere University, held a Public Dialogue on the theme “Desirable Institutions, or Desirable Leaders. What does Uganda need for development?” at the Lower Conference Hall, Senate Building.

17th February 2010: CHS Needs Assessment Dissemination Workshop:

Makerere University and Johns Hopkins University have undertaken in a Twinning Program to inform and guide a 10-year strategic initiative to build Makerere University's sustainable capacity to improve health outcomes in Uganda and the region. As part of the activities, the MUJHU Twinning Program carried out a Needs Assessment for the College of Health Sciences. The half-day dissemination workshop took place at the Imperial Royale Hotel, Kampala.

16th February 2010: Public Lecture by Ambassador Demetrios J. Marantis:

Ambassador Demetrios J. Marantis, Deputy U.S. Trade representative gave a public lecture entitled “United States – African Trade and Investment in the 21st Century” held in the Conference Hall, Department of Food Science and Technology from 2.30 – 4.00p.m.

13th Feb – 3rd March 2010 2010: MTSIFA Staff Art Exhibition:

Fourteen Members of Staff at the Margaret Trowell School of Industrial and Fine Arts Exhibited their works at the “Different but One” exhibition, held at the Makerere Art Gallery.

12th February 2010: Consultative Workshop for the Development and use of Pozzolanic Materials Research:

The Department of Construction Economics and Management of Makerere University received a grant from the Uganda National Council for Science and Technology, under the World Bank's Millennium Science Initiative programs, towards research in the development and use of pozzolanic materials. The Department’s one-day consultative workshop was held at the Protea Hotel, Kampala.

12th February 2010: Mak/UMEME MoU on Bulk Metering signed:

The University now benefits from a lowered average tariff at the main campus, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between UMEME and Makerere University.

11th February 2010: Launch of the GRACE book:

The Gender Research in Africa into ICTs for Empowerment (GRACE) is a project that was initiated in 2005 with an aim to provide context specific data on how women in Africa use information communication technologies (ICTs) to improve their lives, barriers that prevent them from accessing and utilisation of ICTS and how they surmount these barriers. With support from the International Development Research Center (IDRC), GRACE evolved into an African network of gender and ICT researchers involving 14 research teams in 12 different African countries including Uganda. The findings from the first research phase were captured and published in a book titled “African Women and ICTs: Investigating Technology, Gender and Empowerment” and launched at the Faculty of Food Science Conference Room, Makerere University.

10th February 2010: A Student Portforlio’s Presentation, CHS:

The student Portfolio for Makerere was designed in partnership with students and staff of the College of Health Sciences and was piloted this year. Other Institutions at Makerere University such as The School of Graduate Studies, Faculty of Computing & IT and the Directorate of Human Resources Management are in the process of piloting it. The CHS presentation was held in the Davis Lecture Theatre, College of Health Sciences

9th – 11th February 2010: MEDI-SHARE National Conference.

MEDI-SHARE is an initiative taken by a consortium of Institutions: CINECA of University of Bologna Italy and Pharmacy schools in three Higher Education Institutions in East Africa; Makerere University, Nairobi University and Muhimbili University of Health Sciences. The project involves a collection of patient information of three conditions; HIV/AIDS, Malaria and Tuberculosis. The software and platform for managing this information has been developed by CINECA in conjuction with Almalaurea of Italy. The Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, Makerere University organized the three-day workshop at the Imperial Royale Hotel Kampala.

1st February 2010: ICPAU Results Release Ceremony

The Vice Chancellor was invited to officiate over the release of the December 2009 results by the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Uganda (ICPAU). As part of her Corporate Social Responsibility, Makerere University provides the ICPAU with facilities for conducting practical IT examinations, a relationship which dates back to 1997.

1st February 2010: 2nd Vice Chancellors Media briefing

The 2nd monthly media briefing featured the School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences and the School of Graduate Studies. The Vice Chancellor made presentations on the commencement of online registration or students from 1st February 2010, Electronic feedback to parents and guardians on student progress, the putting in place of a Public Relations and Communications Board, to improve the University’s Communications function, and the Alumni Development Fund Account to help raise funds and undertake major projects aimed at creating endowment for Makerere University.

Denis Wamala

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Simplicity, Service & Scholarship: Hallmarks of Professor Livingstone Luboobi’s Legacy

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Rev. Scovia Kumakech (Right), University Leadership, Family and Friends join in song during Prof. Livingstone Luboobi's emotional send-off on 18th July 2025. Funeral service in honour of Professor Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi, 18th July 2025, St. Francis Chapel, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

On Wednesday 16th July 2025, Makerere University lost one of its most cherished sons, Professor Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi. Described as a mathematician, academic leader, and humble servant, Professor Luboobi devoted more than five decades to the university, rising through the ranks to become Vice Chancellor, and leaving a legacy defined by simplicity, service, and scholarship.

Born to Lameka Serwadda and Sanyu Serwadda on 25th December 1944 in Mitondo, Kalisizo, Kyotera District, Professor Luboobi’s academic career begun as a third-year student at Makerere and continued with unwavering loyalty until his passing. His life’s work reflected not only a commitment to mathematics but also nurturing generations of scholars and leaders across Uganda and beyond.

A funeral service was held in his honour at St. Francis Chapel, Makerere University on 18th July 2025. It was a moment of solemn remembrance and heartfelt tribute. Rev. Canon Dr. John Senyonyi delivered the sermon titled “Only God Knows,” reminding mourners of the mystery and grace of life’s journey. Rev. Canon Geoffrey Byarugaba represented the Kampala Diocese at the service, while former St. Francis Chaplain, Rev. Dr. Canon Johnson Ebong thanked Professor Luboobi for spearheading the Chapel’s expansion. Friends, colleagues, and family members filled the chapel, joined in mourning but also in gratitude for a life that had deeply touched theirs.

Mrs. Lorna Magara pays her respects to Prof. Luboobi. Funeral service in honour of Professor Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi, 18th July 2025, St. Francis Chapel, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mrs. Lorna Magara pays her respects to Prof. Luboobi.

Mrs. Lorna Magara, Chairperson of the University Council, spoke movingly about Professor Luboobi’s faithfulness, likening his life to the biblical call in Mark 10:43, “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.”

In his condolence message, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Barnabas Nawangwe, hailed Professor Luboobi as a visionary leader whose legacy is deeply woven into Makerere’s identity as a research-led institution. He credited Professor Luboobi with laying the groundwork for a culture of inquiry—championing graduate programmes, encouraging doctoral training, and fostering international collaborations that strengthened the university’s research profile. “He believed in building systems, not just structures,” noting that many of Makerere’s current research policies stem from his leadership. Even in retirement, Professor Luboobi remained a source of wisdom and guidance, quietly shaping the future of the university he so deeply loved.

Speaker after speaker painted a portrait of a man who led not by pomp, but by quiet strength and deep conviction.  The Principal, Professor Winston Tumps Ireeta, speaking on behalf of the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), described Professor Luboobi as a foundational figure whose influence is deeply etched in the structures and spirit of the college. He spoke with emotion about Luboobi’s unwavering commitment to academic integrity and his belief in the power of mentorship.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Right) joined by Left to Right: Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala (Rear), and Prof. Frank N. Mwiine lays a wreath on Prof. Luboobi's casket. Funeral service in honour of Professor Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi, 18th July 2025, St. Francis Chapel, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Right) joined by Left to Right: Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala (Rear), and Prof. Frank N. Mwiine lays a wreath on Prof. Luboobi’s casket.

“He was not just a mathematician,” Professor Ireeta said, “he was a visionary who understood the soul of the university. Even in retirement, he remained an advisor, a guide, and a quiet force of wisdom.” He concluded by saying that the college would continue to draw from his example as it navigates the future of science and innovation in Uganda.

Professor Luboobi’s illustrious career at Makerere University included serving as Head, Department of Mathematics from 1990 to 1991. The current Head of Department, Dr. Ismail Mirumbe remembered him as a pillar in the teaching and development of mathematics in Uganda

Professor John Mango, who served as Head, Department of Mathematics during Professor Luboobi’s term as Vice Chancellor from 2004 to 2009 described him as a towering figure of integrity and principle, someone who not only upheld the highest standards of academic conduct but insisted that others around him do the same. “He was a pillar in the department,” Prof. Mango remarked, “and his moral compass was unwavering.”

Left to Right: Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, Prof. Juma Kasozi, Prof. Michael Owor, Dr. Ismail MIrumbe, Prof. John Mango and Dr. Saul Nsubuga present the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS)' remarks. Funeral service in honour of Professor Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi, 18th July 2025, St. Francis Chapel, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Left to Right: Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, Prof. Juma Kasozi, Prof. Michael Owor, Dr. Ismail MIrumbe, Prof. John Mango and Dr. Saul Nsubuga present the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS)’ remarks.

He recalled instances where Professor Luboobi made firm decisions, including terminating contracts when integrity was compromised, setting a tone that shaped the department’s reputation for honesty and excellence. Even as Vice Chancellor, he remained deeply involved in the department’s affairs, teaching, supervising students, all the while handling top administrative duties punctually. Prof. Mango spoke with great admiration of a man who led by example, mentored many, and whose contributions to mathematics education, research, and policy-making continue to shape the future of the discipline in Uganda and beyond.

According to an article from 1990 written by Dr. Vincent Ssembatya and Andrew Vince at the University of Florida, the Uganda Mathematical Society (UMS), which was formally established on 25th November, 1972 has since inception enjoyed major support from Makerere University and Kyambogo University in terms of infrastructure and leadership. Professor Paul Mugambi, who was also present at Professor Luboobi’s funeral service was elected first president of the UMS. Dr. Saul Nsubuga from the Department of Mathematics represented UMS at the service, honouring Professor Luboobi’s pioneering role in the discipline.

The service also featured tributes from close friends and family. Loved ones shared stories of a man who remained grounded no matter how high he rose, a man who valued relationships and walked closely with his faith. His children and grandchildren remembered him as a father who was ever-present, a listener, and a source of steady guidance.

Some of Prof. Luboobi's children Left to Right: Dr. Irene Nakiyimba, Sarah Nantale, James Mazzi Sserwadda, Lazarus Kasobya, Dr. David Kimera, and Prof. Daniel Kibuule lay a wreath on their father's casket. Funeral service in honour of Professor Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi, 18th July 2025, St. Francis Chapel, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Some of Prof. Luboobi’s children Left to Right: Dr. Irene Nakiyimba, Sarah Nantale, James Mazzi Sserwadda, Lazarus Kasobya, Dr. David Kimera, and Prof. Daniel Kibuule lay a wreath on their father’s casket.

Professor Daniel Kibuule, son of the late Professor Luboobi and Dean, Faculty of Health Sciences at Busitema University, delivered a deeply personal tribute that painted a full portrait of his father’s life, values, and final days. He expressed gratitude to the University leadership, family, friends, and medical professionals who stood with them during a challenging period. He particularly thanked his siblings, Dr. David Kimera and Dr. Irene Nakiyimba for their unwavering role in caring for Professor Luboobi through illness.

He spoke of a man who, despite great academic accolades, remained deeply humble and committed to discipline, simplicity, and faith. From instilling punctuality and responsibility to ensuring his children charted their own paths, none bearing his surname “Luboobi”, Prof. Luboobi was intentional in every lesson he passed on. Kibuule recalled his father’s insistence on being at home even in his final moments, his strong connection to Christ, and his quiet strength despite his failing health.

Former students and mentees echoed the same sentiments, of a teacher who was generous with his time and invested deeply in others’ growth. The community that gathered was not only there to grieve but to celebrate the quiet legacy of a man whose example continues to live on.

Among the mourners were public figures and leaders, including Hon. Abed Bwanika, Member of Parliament for Kimanya-Kabonera, Hon. Nyombi Thembo, the Executive Director Uganda Communications Commission, and Hon. Dr. Ham-Mukasa Mulira, former Minister of ICT, among others.

In his passing, Makerere University has lost a pillar, but his life reminds us that greatness lies in consistency, in humility, and in service to others. Professor Luboobi’s memory will continue to live on in the minds he shaped, the systems he built, and the values he embodied. He ran his race with grace.

The Writer is a Volunteer in the Public Relations Office, Makerere University

Please click the embedded video below to view the service livestream

Eve Nakyanzi
Eve Nakyanzi

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Public University Legal and Accounting Officers Trained on Governance and Compliance

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Legal and accounting officers from public universities across Uganda have convened, for a high-level training workshop organized by Makerere University. The three-day training, taking place from July 16th to 18th, 2025, is aimed at strengthening legal frameworks, improving institutional governance, and ensuring compliance with public finance and procurement laws within higher education institutions.

Ms. Lorna Magara, Chairperson of the Makerere University Council and Guest of Honour at the opening session, commended the initiative as timely and necessary. She addressed the growing backlog of court cases affecting Makerere and other public universities and outlined measures already taken to mitigate legal risks. These include the establishment of a Legal Rules and Privileges Committee and the Directorate of Legal Affairs, part of a broader strategy to improve legal compliance and foster good governance.

Representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Winston Tumps – Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration), described the training as both strategic and practical. “It is imperative that we learn from each other, especially in how we handle employee litigation and institutional legal risks,” he remarked. He added that the program is designed to promote experience-sharing across universities and enhance collective institutional growth.

Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka(2nd R) responding to questions during a Q&A Session

In his address, Mr. Yusuf Kiranda, University Secretary at Makerere University, emphasized the urgent need for robust legal oversight and more effective case management mechanisms within public universities.

The training featured a keynote address by the Attorney General of Uganda, Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka, who provided critical insights into legal expectations for public institutions. He warned that failure to heed legal advice could result in personal liability for accounting officers, citing a precedent involving the Uganda Cancer Institute. “Universities must consult the Attorney General’s chambers before entering into major contractual obligations,” he advised, urging legal officers to document decisions meticulously as proper record-keeping forms the first line of defense in legal disputes.

Hon. Justice Musa Sekaana of the Court of Appeal

Hon. Kiwanuka further discussed the government’s ongoing efforts to recentralize legal services to ensure alignment with the Attorney General’s office. He cautioned in-house counsel against becoming overly entangled in decision-making processes, stressing the need for objectivity. Other key issues he addressed included contract approvals, misuse of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), and lapses in procurement processes, particularly at the close of financial years.

Participants also benefited from insights by Hon. Justice Musa Ssekaana of the Court of Appeal, who offered an in-depth analysis of judicial review and its significance in promoting lawful, transparent university governance. He called on university legal officers to act with clarity, timeliness, and accountability.

Lady Justice Joyce Kavuma, Judge of the High Court, delivered a comprehensive presentation on dispute and claim management involving public universities. She addressed emerging trends in civil litigation, emphasizing the importance of due process, transparency, and clear communication in resolving employment, student, and contractual disputes. Drawing on real case examples, she urged institutions to strengthen internal systems, embrace participatory governance, and adopt regional best practices to minimize litigation and protect institutional reputation.

Lady Justice Joyce Kavuma, Judge of the High Court

The training reflects a shared commitment among public universities to build a more accountable, legally sound, and strategically aligned higher education system in Uganda. Through peer learning and collaboration, participating institutions aim to reduce litigation, enhance institutional autonomy, and uphold the rule of law.

Participating universities include Makerere University, Kyambogo University, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Busitema University, Mountains of the Moon University, and Lira University.

The training concludes on July 18th 2025, with sessions focusing on employment dispute management in public universities and the implications of recent PPDA Appeals Tribunal decisions on procurement and disposal practices within public entities.

Eve Nakyanzi
Eve Nakyanzi

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Celebrating the Life of Prof. Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi

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The Late Professor Livingstone Serwadda Luboobi, Vice Chancellor Emeritus (2004 - 2009). Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

A Visionary Leader, Seasoned Mathematician, & Humble Academician

It is with profound love and respect that we celebrate the life of Prof. Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi, a distinguished scholar, transformative leader, and beloved Vice Chancellor Emeritus of Makerere University. His legacy is woven in the fabric of African higher education, marked by intellectual brilliance, unwavering commitment to academic excellence, and a life of selfless service.

A Life of Purpose and Vision

Prof. Luboobi was more than a mathematician. He was a visionary, whose work transcended equations and research papers. Serving as Vice Chancellor from 2004 to 2009, he led Makerere University through a critical period of growth and transformation. Under his guidance, the university expanded its reach, strengthened its academic rigor, and embraced innovation and reform. His calm demeanour and principled decision-making earned the admiration of students, faculty, and peers alike.

Prof. Luboobi was deeply committed to nurturing talent and fostering intellectual curiosity, leaving an indelible mark on the institution’s culture and future direction.

Beyond Uganda, Prof. Luboobi’s influence resonated across the global academic community. He was a passionate advocate for the transformative power of science and education, often speaking at international forums and collaborating on research that bridged continents and disciplines. His work helped elevate the profile of African scholarship on the world stage.

His legacy endures not only in the impressive body of work he left behind but also in the countless lives he touched – students, educators, and leaders who continue to draw inspiration from him.

Academic and Leadership Journey at Makerere University

An illustrious alumnus of Makerere University, Prof. Luboobi graduated with First Class Honours in Mathematics, laying the foundation for an extraordinary academic journey. He pursued further studies at the University of Toronto (MSc in Operations Research, 1971-72) and the University of Adelaide (PhD in Biomathematics, 1978–80). His scholarly journey spanned prestigious institutions worldwide, including UCLA, the University of Bergen, and the University of Dar es Salaam, establishing him as a scholar of global repute and a proud ambassador of African intellectualism.

Prof. Luboobi’s service to Makerere begun in 1970 as a Special Assistant-remarkably, while still an undergraduate, rising through the ranks to full Professor in 1997. He served as Head of Department, Dean of the Faculty of Science (1994–2001), and later became the university’s first elected Vice Chancellor. His tenure brought new energy to institutional leadership, characterized by transparency, inclusivity, strategic direction and accountability.

Strategic Reforms and Institutional Impact

A true architect of transformation, Prof. Luboobi chaired the development of Makerere’s first locally-conceived Strategic Plan (1990–91). He was instrumental in securing a UGX30 billion grant from NORAD in 1999, which revitalized key academic areas such as computing, gender studies, and food science. He co-founded the Makerere University Private Sector Forum, bridging the gap between academia and industry, and strengthening alumni engagement and resource mobilization.

Pioneering Biomathematics and Mentorship

As one of Africa’s pioneering biomathematicians, Prof. Luboobi introduced mathematical modeling to tackle real-world problems in epidemiology, ecology, and operations research. His scholarly contributions – over 150 publications – reflect the depth and breadth of his research. Yet, perhaps his most lasting impact lies in mentorship: he supervised more than 35 PhD and over 50 MSc students, including Makerere’s first female PhD graduate in Mathematics, nurturing a generation of scholars and leaders.

Prof. Luboobi’s Contribution to the Internationalization of Makerere University

Prof. Luboobi played a pivotal role in advancing the international profile of Makerere University. Demonstrating remarkable personal commitment, he utilized his own resources to support the establishment of the University’s International Office. This strategic initiative laid the foundation for a more structured and effective engagement with global academic institutions, development partners, and international students. As a result, Makerere University significantly enhanced its global footprint, forming numerous international collaborations and attracting increased academic and research opportunities from abroad.

In addition to his contributions to internationalization, Prof. Luboobi was also instrumental in revitalizing the University’s Public Relations Unit. Under his guidance, the unit adopted more proactive and professional communication strategies, which greatly improved the institution’s public image. This, in turn, fostered greater public trust and strengthened the university’s reputation both locally and internationally. His visionary leadership in these areas has had a lasting impact, positioning Makerere University as a leading institution in East Africa and beyond.

Global Recognition and Enduring Legacy

Prof. Luboobi’s contributions earned him widespread recognition. In 2008, the University of Bergen awarded him an Honorary Doctorate for his role in internationalizing academia. Makerere University honoured him with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2013, and the Government of Uganda conferred upon him a National Gold Medal for his unwavering service to education and national development.

Even after retirement, Prof. Luboobi remained an active contributor to academic life-lecturing, supervising, and advising the university. 

A Lasting Light in African Academia

Prof. Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi’s life was a model of scholarship anchored in service, leadership tempered with humility, and an unshakable belief in the power of education. He leaves behind a vibrant academic legacy and a trail of inspired minds. His contributions will continue to shape Makerere University, Uganda, and the global academic community for generations to come.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, colleagues, and the entire Makerere University community during this difficult time.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Mak Editor

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