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CHUSS Symposium Restores Hope in the Face of Disruptions by the 4IR

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Defined by the symposium brief as the destabilising impact of, especially information mediated reality on account of advances in social media and the Internet, the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) has caused quite a stir in the Humanities and Social Sciences disciplines especially in the face of outward promotion of Science and Technology by projects such as the Uganda Millennium Science Initiative. It was against this background that the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) organised a symposium based on the theme “The Humanities And Social Sciences In The Age Of Disruptions: Policy Challenges, Praxis Benefits And Intellectual Engagements” on 6th March 2018.

Giving an overview of the of the symposium held in the Main Hall, Dr. Edgar Nabutanyi paid tribute to the event sponsors; Gerda-Henkel Stiftung Foundation, for not only offering 30 full PhD Scholarships to students, but also agreeing to re-allocate the balance of funds to sponsoring public debates on issues affecting Humanities and Social Sciences disciplines. Dr. Nabutanyi is the Coordinator of the Gerda-Henkel Stiftung Foundation CHUSS PhD Training Programme.

Dr. Edgar Nabutanyi helped organise the CHUSS Symposium

“This symposium is meant to cause us to ask questions that unpack this age brought about by the Fourth Industrial Revolution. What are the challenges affecting the Humanities and Social Sciences? How can we harness the tools of the Fourth Industrial Revolution to centre Humanities and Social Sciences in the search of answers to the most important questions facing Africa in the 21st Century? Hopefully we shall have more questions than answers at the end of today’s symposium for that is indeed our nature; to question,” remarked Dr. Edgar Nabutanyi.

“Disruptions are not all negative but are instead events that make things happen,” remarked Assoc. Prof. Josephine Ahikire, Deputy Principal CHUSS and Chair of the Symposium Organising Committee. “Humanities and Social Sciences are the pulse of the University and we are planning how best to refashion these disciplines in the new era” she added.

Assoc. Prof. Ahikire went on to say that the Humanities and Social Sciences provide ideational leadership to the university as they are the eyes, ears and hands of society. She called upon PhD Students at the symposium to emulate their leaders in CHUSS.

Assoc. Prof. Josephine Ahikire chaired the CHUSS Symposium Organising Committee

“We want to leverage our cohort of PhD graduates to strengthen the supervision capacity in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. I therefore thank all members of the organising committee especially Dr. Edgar Nabutanyi for their hard work that has made this event possible” concluded Assoc. Prof. Ahikire.

In the remarks that followed, the Principal CHUSS-Prof. Edward Kirumira thanked the Guest of Honour, Hon. Dr. John Chrysostom Muyingo, who was represented by the Acting Commissioner for Higher Education, Mr. Mukwatampola Muzamir, for coming to witness the revival of debates at Makerere University as led by CHUSS. He welcomed the keynote speaker and Dean, School of Humanities at the University of Nairobi, Prof. Peter Wasamba and thanked him for taking time off to deliver the address.

“Prof. Peter Wasamba is part of the leadership for the Next Generation of Africa Academics; a program I was privileged to head for seven years, which has trained 16 PhDs at Makerere including Dr. Edgar Natubanyi. He is now giving back by organising such symposia and I thank all colleagues in Administration and at CHUSS for pushing the agenda beyond just training of Masters and PhD students to engaging in intellectual discourse” added Prof. Kirumira.

Prof. Edward Kirumira (L) and Prof. Peter Wasamba (R) interact during the CHUSS Symposium

He paid tribute to the Gerda-Henkel Stiftung Foundation for sponsoring 30 fully paid PhDs in Humanities and Social Sciences, as well as the Andrew Mellon Foundation for an additional 7 PhD scholarships. Prof. Kirumira added that the college is reviving the creation of a community of scholars at Makerere so that individuals who return from their studies do not feel isolated; a factor that will help improve the University’s staff retention statistics.

Prof. Kirumira concluded that the symposium was one way of Makerere; a government institution, providing accountability to the public and the taxpayer. “Stay with us on this journey of taking Makerere to the public and please participate and challenge the presentations: be constructively critical, not destructively critical” he advised.

The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs)-DVCAA, Assoc. Prof. Ernest Okello Ogwang is no stranger to the intense scrutiny directed at the Humanities and Social Sciences in the wake of disruptive digital technology and social media. An accomplished publisher with a PhD in Literature-Folklore from the Indiana University, Bloomington, he started off his remarks by acknowledging the presence of his fellow alumna and Uganda’s first Minister of Women and Development, Hon. Mrs. Joyce Mpanga who graced the symposium.

Assoc. Prof. Ernest Okello Ogwang (R) addresses the symposium. Left is Symposium Opening Session Chair-Assoc. Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi

“The issue of praxis, beyond the ideas in our field is critical. Beyond the classroom and scholarly discussions, it has become imperative that African Humanities and Social Sciences scholars must become active advocates following in the footsteps of Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, Ali Mazrui and Thabo Mbeki, among others,” remarked Assoc. Prof. Okello Ogwang, who also represented the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.   

Assoc. Prof. Okello Ogwang expressed happiness that the symposium would be immediately followed by a graduate workshop, which would help to inspire and guide the emerging scholars in the field on an appropriate path. “In times when we as scholars of people, society and relationships are being tasked to deliver tangible contributions in the midst of a global technological explosion, we must rise to the challenge and provide irrefutable evidence that indeed the humanities and social sciences are the foundation and basis of all human civilisations” he added.

The DVCAA thanked CHUSS for this timely intervention aimed at fostering the humanities and social sciences and their role in development processes and also appreciated the Gerda-Henkel Stiftung Foundation for sponsoring the symposium.

Mr. Mukwatampola Muzamir represented the Chief Guest, the State Minister for Higher Education-Hon. Dr. John Chrysostom Muyingo

“I bring greetings from the Ministry of Education and Sports and apologies from the Minister of State for Higher Education Hon. Dr. John Chrysostom Muyingo who was unable to make it today owing to state duties of equally great importance” remarked Mr. Mukwatampola as he prepared to read the Guest of Honour’s remarks.

The Minister’s speech acknowledged that Humanities and Social Sciences are important disciplines in the development of society and symposia act as beacons of hope and conveyor belts to academic excellence for all stakeholders who participate in them. On behalf of the Government, he extended his appreciation to the Gerda-Henkel Stiftung Foundation for the financial and material support extended to CHUSS and implored the University Management to ensure that this programme and many others deliver to the expectations of humanity and society.

“I appeal to the College of Humanities and Social Sciences and Makerere University to remain vibrant and relevant to both National and International development agenda. In so doing we shall be able to to attain a lower middle income status by 2020 as spelt out in the National Development Plan II, sooner rather than later” concluded the Minister’s remarks.

Prof. Peter Wasamba delivered the Keynote Address at the CHUSS Symposium 2018, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda

Right from the onset, Prof. Peter Wasamba left his audience spellbound as he effortlessly defined the elements that characterise the Fourth Industrial Revolution with the air of a seasoned IT Specialist. Listening to him rapidly advance through the applications of disruptive technologies like the Internet of Things-IoT, Virtual Reality-VR, Robotics, Cloud Computing, Big Data etc. could easily leave one wondering if they were actually listening to an academic whose specialty is African Oral Literature.

“By adopting digital Humanities and Social Sciences, we have been ushered into the Fourth Industrial Revolution; we are into the digital age, not outside it. We can now carry out data analysis using computer programmes by ourselves” remarked Prof. Prof. Wasamba, demonstrating how fine the line of separation between Humanities and Social Sciences and the Fourth Industrial Revolution had become.

Prof. Wasamba noted that the advent of Humanities and Social Sciences was a response to the disruptive effects of the First Industrial Revolution which used steam engines to mechanise production. He however noted that the problem facing the Humanities and Social Sciences presently is official neglect by the authorities which resulted into shrinking of funds allocated and the terming of the disciplines as “useless” by policy makers.

The Department of Performing Arts and Film-PAF put up an energetic performance. Talent is the fifth factor of production in the 4IR

He however stated that back home, it is more common to find graduates of engineering jobless as compared to their Humanities and Social Sciences colleagues. “In Nairobi, employability of Humanities and Social Sciences students is high because they are flexible and therefore able to adapt to the changing job market” Prof. Wasamba pointed out.

Not all disruption pointed out by the keynote address was negative though. Prof. Wasamba was happy to note that the 4IR had through mobile phones brought increased access to market information especially for small scale farmers, an intervention that saved them from being cheated by the greedy middlemen. He also pointed out the advent of feminisation of the workforce as another plus “ladies bring a lot of new ideas to industrial production compared to their male counterparts in this patriarchal society.”

“The Fourth Industrial Revolution will change the way we have been governing ourselves” said Prof. Wasamba as he launched into governance. As an example, he shared that students today by the power of their mobile phones have access to a lot of information and as such, their rights cannot be trampled upon.
Additionally, the citizenry was much more informed about their constitutional rights and with the speed of evolution, policies were increasingly being rendered obsolete, owing to the long periods of time it took to formulate and effect them.

Hon. Mrs. Joyce Mpanga (R) congratulates Prof. Peter Wasamba (2nd L) upon delivering a brilliant presentation as Dr. Edith Natukunda (2nd R) and Dr. Aaron Mushengyezi (L) witness

Prof. Wasamba however shared that the 4IR brought a number of advantages to the Humanities and Social Sciences. “It is only our disciplines that can secure values and ensure that our societies survive and thrive” he remarked, before adding “Values of safety, need for justice and equality to reduce the gap between the rich and the poor are more critical in the Fourth Industrial Revolution than ever before. Scientists will always protect themselves. It is up to us in the Humanities and Social Sciences to protect the values.”

Additionally, Prof. Wasamba noted that this was the time for students of Humanities and Social Sciences to thank God for what their training equips them for. “The Fourth Industrial Revolution calls for men and women who can solve problems. To be effective in the digital era, people must be able to think critically, listen attentively and speak coherently” he advised. This he opined would give arts graduates a competitive edge over their science counterparts in the job market.

Prior to the 4IR, economists cited only four factors of production namely; land, labour, capital and entrepreneurship. Prof. Wasamba however, shared that talent had now joined this list as the fifth factor “That is why Silicon Valley is looking for graduates from the Liberal Arts because that is where talent is groomed and promoted” he said.

Dr. Tanga Odoi called for the creation of Think Tanks to help criticize and direct Government

Prof. Wasamba concluded his address by insisting that the only way Humanities and Social Sciences would benefit from the 4IR was through the development of policies that support inclusive goals and avoid segregating minorities and groups such as women and the youth. “Let us not have a revolution designed to benefit only a few in power or those with money. Our Governments must protect us by coming up with regulations that protect our innovations. We also need fast policy development procedures that protect our people from disruptive innovations such as crypto currencies,” he concluded.

The reactions that followed were all full of praise for Prof. Peter Wasamba’s presentation. The Head, Department of Literature-Dr. Okot Benge appreciated the presentation for its breadth and depth. He reiterated that in the face of rapidly evolving disruptive technologies, Humanities and Social Sciences remained the glue of an organised human society. “Scholarship these days isn’t about the priority of discipline but the enrichment of interdisciplinary discourse” he said.

Hon. Mrs. Joyce Mpanga was also all praises for the keynote address, describing it as “simply brilliant!” She further expressed her desire to see a faster policy formulation process; citing the Biotechnology bill which was introduced to the 6th Parliament (1996-2001) but is still being subject to debate in the 10th Parliament (2016-2021). She however reassured the audience that Humanities and Social Sciences were not dead, as long as creative ideas were still springing forth from people.

Director Research and Graduate Training, Prof. Mukadasi Buyinza thanked CHUSS for organising a wonderful symposium

“In Uganda today, we lack a Think Tank that should criticise and direct Government” said Dr. Tanga Odoi as he weighed in on the day’s theme. “We lack critical thinkers to advise Government and Humanities and Social Sciences are where these critical thinkers are” he added.

“The College of Humanities and Social Sciences is going to bring back these debates on a quarterly basis and we are committed” said Prof. Kirumira resolutely as he brought the responses to a close. “Let us know what topical issues we need to discuss so that we move from justifying our existence to engaging our existence” he added.

In a panel discussion chaired by Dr. Sarah N. Ssali, Associate Professor and Acting Dean of the School of Women and Gender Studies, the audience listened to a discourse of researched knowledge, words of wisdom and philosophies aimed at repositioning the teaching of humanities and social sciences to the digital era and the trends of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. The Panelists included:  Mr. Oscar Semweya Musoke, Principal of Taibah International Schools who advocated for a teaching approach that focuses on producing a flexible and adaptive student; Dr. Charlotte Karungi Mafumbo from the Department of History and Archaeological Studies emphasized the need to change the curricula so that the course content engages the minds of the learners; and Dr. Edward Kaweesi from the Department of Political Science and Public Administration who envisaged  that the Fourth Revolution  would cause disruptions and tensions within the disciplines that constitute humanities and social sciences.  Cognizant of the Fourth Revolution, Dr. Kaweesi called upon academicians in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences to embrace a multidisciplinary approach to teaching and learning as well as research in order to survive and remain relevant to the society they exist to serve.

Article by Public Relations Office

Mark Wamai

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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
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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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