General
Guidelines to First Year students 2016-2017 Academic Year
Published
9 years agoon

First Year students (Freshers) are by tradition given an “acclimatization” period of normally one week which is referred to as the “Orientation Week”. The Freshers report on Campus one week earlier than the Continuing students and during this week they are introduced to the key facilities in the University as well as other important aspects of life at the University.
Schedule of Semesters for Academic Year 2016/2017
Orientation Week:
Getting used to a new place can be pretty daunting, but that is what orientation week is all about; getting to know your surroundings, meeting students and staff members. This makes you feel comfortable enough to hit the ground running when the semester starts. It is a great chance for you to familiarize yourself with the University.
Saturday 6th August, 2016 to Friday 12th August, 2016 (7 Days) – Orientation Week
Semester One
Saturday 13th August, 2016 to Saturday 10th December, 2016 (17 Weeks)
Ceremony of Admission
Friday 19th September, 2016. Time: 2.30 p.m. in the Freedom Square (All Freshers are required to wear the undergraduate gown).
Semester One Vacation
Saturday 10th December, 2016 to Friday 20th January, 2017 (7 Weeks)
Semester Two
Saturday 21stJanuary, 2017 to Saturday 20th May, 2017 (17 Weeks)
Semester Two Vacation
Saturday 20th May, 2017 to Saturday 29th July, 2017 (10 Weeks)
During this week, arrangements are made to enable the Freshers meet and be addressed by Key Officers, Wardens and Student Leaders who welcome the students.
Arrangements are also made to enable the Freshers acquaint themselves with such key facilities at the University like the Library, University Hospital, Games and Recreation Facilities etc. Freshers are expected to take advantage of the week to survey and acquaint themselves with the general Campus lay out. Another major activity during the Orientation Week is Registration.
All Freshers must ensure that they are registered first centrally and then with each of their respective Colleges/Schools.
Orientation Events
Saturday 6th August, 2016
Resident Freshers report to their respective Halls of residence or private Hostels by 5.00 p.m. It is the responsibility of each student to make his/her own travel arrangements to the University or private hostel.
Monday 8th August, 2016
All Freshers shall report to the Freedom Square for a meeting with the University officials at 9.00 a.m.
Programme for the Day
9.00 a.m – 12.30 p.m address from the following University officials:
▪ Guild President
▪ Deputy Registrars
▪ The Academic Registrar
▪ Dean of Students
▪ Director University Health Services
▪ Director Counseling & Guidance Centre
▪ The Principal Games Tutor
▪ The University Bursar
▪ The University Chief Security Officer
The Freedom square is the open ground in front of the main Administration Building where official functions of the University are normally performed.
Freshers are expected to be seated by 9.00 a.m.
Registration
For a candidate to qualify to be a bonafide student of the University, he/she must be registered. Registration is a mandatory requirement of the University which must be done within the first two (2) weeks from the beginning of the semester by every student.
Registration will commence on Monday 8th August, 2016 starting at 9.00 a.m. each day.
Ensure that you complete all the required registration formalities within the prescribed time in order to avoid disappointments later.
Registration Requirements
For registration purposes, the originals of the following must be produced by each Fresher:
▪ Admission Letter, O’Level Certificate/Pass Slip (UCE or Equivalent)
▪ A’Level Certificate/Pass Slip (UACE or equivalent)
▪ Birth Certificate
▪ An Identity Card from the previous A’level School. The Diploma Holders must produce Identity Cards from their previous College.
▪ Three photocopies of each of the “O” and “A”Level Results Slips/Certificates, and Transcripts/Certificates from the awarding Institutions in case of Diploma Holders.
▪ Seven most recent passport-size photographs. (Current Likeness)
▪ Copies of the Pay-in/Deposit Slip acknowledging payment of the following fees for each government sponsored student to Makerere University Fees Collection Accounts:
a) University Rules Booklet – Shs.2,000/=
b) Undergraduate Gown – Shs.16,000/=
c) Identity Card – Shs.45,000/=
d) Guild Subscription fee – Shs.10,000/=
e) Endowment fee – Shs.10,000/=
f) Senior Common Room fee – Shs.5,000/=
g) Sports Contribution fee – Shs.15,000/=
h) National Council for Higher Education fees – Shs.20,000/=(Payable to
the National Council for Higher Education Account)
Change of Programme/Subjects
(a) Change of Programme
Since selection for specific programmes was made according to each candidate’s performance and order of programme choices, taking into account the available subject combinations and time-table limitations, there is normally little need to change the programme or subjects. However, some places become vacant when some of the students admitted do not take up the offers. Such places are filled through the change of programme/subjects.
Students who wish to change programmes first of all register according to the registration time-table for the programmes and subjects (where applicable) to which originally have been admitted. Each student who may wish to change his/her programme/subject is required to pay an application fee of Shs.6,000/= plus the bank charges to Stanbic Bank, dfcu Bank, Post Bank, Centenary Bank and crane Bank.
(b) Change of Subjects
Students in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Natural Sciences or the College of Education and External Studies may wish to change their subjects. Change of Subject will be done online on payment of Shs.6,000/=, to either Stanbic Bank, dfcu Bank, Post Bank, Centenary Bank or crane Bank.
Students should be aware that changing one subject may result in a change of College. Before students apply to change their programmes, Colleges and Subjects, they are encouraged to seek advice on the cut-off point(s) for programmes, requirements for specific subjects and possible subject combinations.
Students are notified and warned about this Senate ruling that any one transferring to another subject or College without proper authority will be liable to discontinuation from the University.
A student who has been permitted to change his/her programme or subject(s) is issued with a letter stating so, and on receipt of such a letter that student should complete the ACCEPTANCE Part and return a copy of each to the Undergraduate Admissions and Records Office, the former and the new College/School.
The change of programme/subjects will be done online from Monday 8th August, 2016 to Friday 12th August, 2016 at Level 3, Senate Building.
N.B: It is advisable that only those students who meet the cut-off points for the desired programmes may apply.
COMMUNICATION FROM UNIVERSITY SECRETARY
Effect 2016/2017 Academic year, all students admitted by Makerere University at the Makerere University Business School-MUBS campus are required to pay Ugx. 190,000 directly to Makerere University Fees Collection Account Number: 9030005866749 at Stanbic Makerere Branch.
Please take note that the Identity Card fee of Ugx. 45,000 is paid once and hence the above figure will adjust to Ugx. 145,000 after the 1st year of study. The details of the total figures is as follows;
Ugandans (Ugx) Other Nationals (Ugx)
Registration 50,000 101,000
Examination 50,000 151,500
Technology 25,000 50,000
Identity Card 45,000 45,000
Affiliation 20,000 20,000
Total Ugx.190,000 Ugx. 367,500
You will be required to present the receipts for the above fees at the end of your program in order to access your academic documents.
COMMUNICATION FROM DEAN OF STUDENTS
Accomodation
Accommodation for year one students 2016/2017 in the University Halls of Residence.
1. Government Sponsored
a) A’Level direct merit entrants offered the following study programmes maybe accommodated in the Halls of Residence to which they are attached as indicated on the admission letter. Eligible students not able to take up the accommodation offer for very strong reasons should inform the Dean of Studentsin writing before Monday 1st August, 2016 and submit your application to Room 214, Senate Building:
i) Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Engineering (AGE)
ii) Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (AGR)
(iii) Bachelor of Architecture (ARC)
iv) Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS)
v) Bachelor of Science in Medical Radiography (BMR)
vi) Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (CIV)
vii) Bachelor of Science in Conservation Forestry & Products Technology (CFP)
viii) Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (ELE)
ix) Bachelor of Industrial and Fine Art (FIN)
x) Bachelor of Science in Food Sciences and Technology (FST)
xi) Bachelor of Laws (LAW)
xii) Bachelor of Science in Land Surveying and Geometric (LSG)
xiii) Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MAM)
xiv) Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (MEC)
xv) Bachelor of Science in Nursing (NUR)
xvi) Bachelor Social and Entrepreneurial Forestry (SEF)
xvii) Bachelor Science in Quantity Surveying (SQS)
xviii) Bachelor Statistics (STA)
xix) Bachelor Pharmacy (PHA)
xx) Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine (VET)
b) Non Residents
The rest of the government sponsored students, including all those admitted through Diploma and Mature age entry schemes (irrespective of study programmes offered) shall be Non Residents and eligible for Food and Living out allowance. Register with the Warden’s Office at your Hall of attachment upon arrival.
c) Change to Private Programmes
Students admitted on government sponsorship but who choose to take up alternative study programmes under private sponsorship shall lose all government related benefits and should not claim for any.
d) Students Admitted Under Disability Scheme
Students in the above Scheme may be resident in the Halls of attachments indicated on their admission letters, irrespective of the study programmes offered.
e) Students Admitted Under Sports & District Quota Schemes
Students admitted under these categories will be treated as in 1(a) and (b) above, subject to availability of bed space by the time their admission is finalized.
2. Change of Halls of Attachment
This is PROHIBITED except where Gender was mixed up i.e female attached to Male Halls or vice versa.
3. Privately Sponsored Students
a) A few bed spaces have been reserved for privately sponsored students. Once admitted privately sponsored students who wish to be accommodated should apply to Dean of Students in Room 214, Senate Building for Bed space.
b) Privately sponsored students granted permission to reside in Halls of Residence may pay for meals at the nearest Food Court. There are six Food Courts located in Africa, Nkrumah/Nsibirwa, University Hall, Mary Stuart, Galloway House and Kabanyolo Hostel.
Alfred Masikye-Namoah
ACADEMIC REGISTRAR
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General
Simplicity, Service & Scholarship: Hallmarks of Professor Livingstone Luboobi’s Legacy
Published
9 hours agoon
July 18, 2025By
Eve Nakyanzi
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, 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.

“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.”

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.

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
General
Public University Legal and Accounting Officers Trained on Governance and Compliance
Published
2 days agoon
July 17, 2025By
Eve Nakyanzi
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.

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. 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.

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.
General
Celebrating the Life of Prof. Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi
Published
2 days agoon
July 17, 2025By
Mak Editor
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.
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