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Capacity Building for FSF Scholars at Makerere in Self-Marketing, Relationships, Academic Excellence and Career Planning

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Since 2001, the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD) has been implementing a Female Scholarship programme under the Makerere University Female Scholarship Foundation (FSF).In addition to the tuition and living expenses, GMD equips the scholars with various life and soft skills that are crucial in succeeding beyond university education. In this respect, GMD organised a two-day capacity building workshop from 8th- 9th February 2018 in the Makerere University Senate Conference Halllevel four under a theme: “self-marketing and career success”. Over 70 female scholars attended the training and it was facilitated byreputable trainersfrom Daniel Choudry Sales Training Institute, the Gender mainstreaming Directorate and Public Relations Office Makerere University.

According to the Ag. Director Dr.Euzobia Mugisha Baine, the capacity building training aimed at enhancing scholar’s skills and capacities in social and academic life at campus and beyond. The two- day training also focused on providing academic mentoring and psychosocial support to scholars while at university. The content of the training included  introduction  to critical and mind wooing aspects of  career choices, managing social and intimate relationships and achieving academic excellence, the power of communication, building self-confidence, entrepreneurship, effective use of social media, masterly of academic rules and regulations among others.

Dr. Euzobia Mugisha Baine, Mr.  Daniel Choudry, Ms. Lucy Athieno, Mr. Eric Tumwesigye, Ms. Ritah Namisango, Ms. Frances Nyachwo together with the FSF Scholars at Makerere University Freedom Square.

Addressing the scholars,Dr. Euzobia Baine emphasised thatthe capacity building trainingaims at introducing the scholars to have a glimpse into the real world of hustling at work and how to overcome the social challenges they might face when pursuing their dreams. She therefore urged scholars to take each and every point at the workshop seriously and embark on a journey that can positively change their lives.

“You have to understand that besides academic life there is also asocial world and, these two complementeach other. If we are to succeed we have to balance academic and social achievement. Attain the good grades, plan your life and aim high for your career, so that you can achieve and succeed in both arenas, which is not a smooth journey,” she said

She thanked the facilitators for dedicating the two days to have serious and constructive interactions with the scholars when she said, “I am pleased that we have some of the best facilitators in the area of self-marketing, communication, career planning, entrepreneurship among others. They have dedicated their time to see to it that you receive the knowledge we believe is going to aid your journey to success.”

Some of the Scholars during the Capacity Building Workshop.

Dr. Baine appreciated the team work exhibited by her colleagues in the Directorate in organising the workshop, as well as Makerere University Management, Council and University community for the tremendous support towards the scholars. In a special way, she thanked the Carnegie Corporation of New Yorkwhosponsored the activity and all the various funders of the Female Scholarship Foundation for helping the disadvantaged Ugandan girlsto attain Universityeducation.

During the interactions, Daniel Choudry the Director of Daniel Choudry Sales Training Institute and also a Lecturer at Makerere University Business School urged scholars never take the power of self-marketing for granted. According to him, youth have left the power of branding and marketing to businesses and organisation forgetting that their personalities areequally very important in achieving their goals. He therefore encouraged them to focus on building the reputable and respected personality that can attract them to market themselves socially and professionally.

“You should be aware of your own strengths and weaknesses. Start by reflecting on your distinct talents, skills, and academic or professional achievements. Your marketability is largely affected by how much you believe in yourself. In essence, good self-promotion starts with self-confidence. Your own perception of yourself will help you begin to assemble your “brag bag”, that unique picture of who you are personally and professionally”, he said.

Mr. Daniel Choudry engaging the scholars on self-marketing.

He advised the scholars to always be keen on the kind of friends they associate with since this is highly considered to be the greatest measurement to someone’s success. “Be friends to people that can add value to your life, have friends that can be of great importance to realising your dreams, if you associate with turkeys, you will never fly like eagles. The friends you have influence your character, sometimes without you realising it,” said Choudry.

Ms. Lucy Athieno, the Executive Director of Eco-Pads Uganda and also an Alumni of the Female Scholarship Initiative (FSI), shared her entrepreneurship journey on how she managed to become one of the successful female entrepreneurs in the country. According to Athieno, it is important to understand the community needs since this helps someone in knowing the target and the kind of services or goods to bring on market. She also tipped the students on how they can apply for grants and funds to expand their businesses when she said, “be sure that your proposal has the basics that a funder can find attractive to give you his or her money.  When pitching your idea, always speak to someone’s heart and emotions and always associate with people who are better than you because you can learn a lot from them.”

Lucy Athieno sharing her entreprenuership experience.

She also shared with students the power of storytelling and how her story led her to acquire more funding for her business. “The power of storytelling is very important but how do you tell your story? Do not hesitate to tell someone about that one thing you always wanted to do, if it is a good idea people will always pick interest and support you. We can always be what we want if we work for what we want, always attract your respect and reflect that thing you desire, become what you respect and mirror what you admire,” she said.

Discussing the importance ofthe power of small habits in building people’s career and image, Mr. Eric Tumwesigye the Female Scholarship Foundation Desk Officer in the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate, cautioned scholars on their behaviour and attitude towards people and jobs. According to Tumwesigye, some youth are lazy, lack proper strategic plans and are poor in time management. They have exhibited poor communication skills and can no longer respect their elders. He therefore called for order among scholars and emphasized the need to revamp the youth image in the career sector.

Mr. Eric Tumwesigye the Female Scholarship Foundation Desk Officer in the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate, advise students on the importance of resepecting the small habits.

“We are what we have become mainly because of our habits. We have diverted from our societal norms and we have fully neglected our societal habits. They might be simple, and small but they carry the highest value and respect, keep time, have a proper communication and respect the elders then you will win that big deal you have always yarned to attain,” he said.

On the second day of the workshop, Mrs. Alice Ddamulira, a facilitator from Sales Training Institute and Director, St. Mark’s College Namagoma, engaged scholars on relationship matters. She encouraged scholars to develop strategy and plan for their relationship journeys. “We should understand ourselves before we go in for love. We need to be the person we would admire to meet,”she stated.

Relationship matters and relationship dilemmas was Alice Damulira's interesting topic to scholars on day two.

Speaking about relationship dilemmas, Mrs. Ddamulira advised scholars to shun all the fears and myths on relationships and work towards a successful and a happy life ordained by God. She encouraged scholars to properly take care of their bodies and always hold onto their values and principles when it comes to relationship issues.
“Be cautious about self-talk, people love people who are confident. Understand that gracefulness and decency make a lady desirable and powerful. Be graceful and decent in speech and dress. Uphold yourprinciples and values, those who are attracted to you as a person will come and approach you,” she said.

The Makerere University Senior Public Relations Officer, Ms.Ritah Namisango advised scholars to work hard and excel academically. To her, academic excellence is the only way scholars can appreciate their funders for the great work they have done in nurturing their future.  
“If someone has given in their best to make sure you are here, return one favour and give your best academically. Excellence is not an option, it is a must. Work out the strategies for excellence,” she said.

The Makerere University Senior Public Relations Officer, Ms.Ritah Namisango advised scholars on academic excellence.

The Deputy Director (teaching, Learning Research & Innovations) in the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate, Ms. Frances Nyachwo called for persistence and patience among scholars. She encouraged scholars to pursue their goals and always havea creative mind that can generate income for them.

“Take the initiative to work towards that goal that you want to achieve. You need to do something that is generating for you income, be creative and have a strong mind. We want living testimonies. We have been inspired to take another step forward. Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate but our deepest fear is to think beyond what we see,” she said.

She thanked the scholars for being cooperative and called upon all the alumni of the Female Scholarship Foundation (FSF) to a Breakfast meeting scheduled to take place on 10th March 2018 in the Makerere University Main Hall. The aim of the Breakfast meeting is to prepare for the resource mobilization campaign to support bright but socio-economically disadvantaged girls to study at Makerere University under a theme: Drop a Coin and Forever Change aLife.

The Deputy Director (teaching, Learning Research & Innovations) in the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate, Ms. Frances Nyachwo speaking to scholars.

Makerere University Female Scholarship Foundation (FSF) was incorporated by the Makerere University Council in 2010 out of the Female Scholarship Initiative (FSI) established at Makerere University in 2001 with support from the Carnegie Corporation of New York. The goal is to support girls from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds to access university education thus contributing to the increased female enrolment, progression and achievement in University Education and ultimately improving the socio-economic development of the Ugandan society.

Article by:Mak Public Relations Office and Gender Mainstreaming Directorate

Photos by: Mr. Godfrey Kimono, Associate Photographer

 

Proscovia Nabatte

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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.

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