General
Mak- FSF Alumni Breakfast Meeting: Scholars are ready to drop a coin and change a life
Since 2001, the Makerere University Gender Mainstreaming Directorate in partnership with the Carnegie Cooperation of New York, has supported academically bright girls from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds to access university education at Makerere University, thus contributing to the increased undergraduate female students’ enrolment at the University.
In 2012, in addition to the Carnegie Corporation of New York, the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate got new partners to fund the FSF such as the MS JD Global Education Fund, DFCU Bank, Standard Chartered Bank Limited, Joshua Mugenyi Foundation, some Local Government Districts of Uganda and Individuals of Good Will.
Through this support, over 900 female scholars have graduated and are selflessly serving mother Uganda as Lawyers, Chief Executive Directors, Programme Mangers, Bankers, Lecturers, Teachers, Medical Doctors, Church Ministers, Mothers, Big sisters, Social workers and many others. These ladies are clearly the testimony of what Uganda as a country, Africa as a Continent and they would lose if these girls had failed to access University education due to lack of fees and other support that the Makerere University Female Scholarship Foundation has offered since the year 2001.
Numerous bright but socio-economically disadvantaged girls in Uganda still face challenges in accessing higher education. Many girls from less privileged, geographically disadvantaged districts and locations, girls from refugee/displaced communities, ethnic minority groups and girls with various disabilities still face financial challenges in accessing university education.
On 10th March 2018, over 250 alumni of Makerere University Female Scholarship Foundation (FSF) turned up for the First Breakfast Meeting to develop a sustainability approach towards the Female Scholarship Foundation as well as propose a way forward on how they can support their fellow socio-economically needy bright girls to attain higher education at Makerere University.
The FSF Alumni Breakfast meetings are among several activities that will be organised prior to an official launch of the Resource Mobilization Campaign dubbed “Drop a Coin and Forever Change a Life”. These meetings are geared towards instilling the spirit of philanthropy among the FSF alumni, maintaining an active and periodical engagement of the FSF alumni, tracking alumni progress and status through database updates, encouraging FSF Alumni voluntary commitments to contribute towards the FSF, encouraging FSF Alumni to mobilize people in their networks and reach out to institutions and organisations which can financially support the Foundation towards sustainability.
During the interactive sessions that were held in the Makerere University Main Hall, the FSF Alumni selected an FSF Alumni Executive Committee, chaired by Ms.Adong Agnes who is an FSF Alumni, to oversee the Alumni participation throughout the processes and procedures of realizing the objectives of the Resource Mobilization Campaign in conjunction with the Makerere University Gender Mainstreaming Directorate.
This Committee is also responsible for engaging the FSF Alumni in activities that are focused on developing the FSF Alumni Association. In the same meeting, FSF Alumni also proposed various ways that could be utilised to mobilize for resources among which included;
• Revitalising the FSF Alumni Association with specific annual subscription fees
• Making individual FSF Alumni honour pledges
• Instituting mobile telephone lines linked to a bank product for convenient financial donations
• Printing and distribution of flyers and other appropriate information packs about the FSF
• Publication of testimonies of the FSF Alumni
• Mobilizing and reaching out to fellow FSF alumni through cohort-specific leaders
• Encouraging fulfilling individual pledges on either daily, monthly and annually towards the Foundation
• Reaching out to potential funders, sponsors and partners at the local, national regional and international levels
• Upholding accountability and transparency
According to the Ag. Director of the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate, Dr.Euzobia Mugisha Baine, in 2017, the Carnegie Corporation of New York together with the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate agreed to develop a strategy for mobilizing resources to sustain the scholarships with the involvement of the FSF Alumni to support additional girls from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds to access university education at Makerere University.
“We looked at how the project can sustain itself and we decided to come up with the resource mobilization campaign. I believe we have the numbers from the FSF Alumni and this is one of our greatest strength. We are loved and this equally is strength for us. We have a family and this is gold. Coming together as a family, nothing can fail us. If we decide to take this initiative by the horn as a family we shall succeed. Let us give what we have and support a life. I know each one of us has moved up the ladder but at one point someone somewhere gave a hand. Let us join our hands together for the betterment of our disadvantaged girls,” she said.
So impressed with the immense turn up of the Alumni, the Ag. Director, encouraged scholars to take the lead in the Resource Mobilization Campaign activities when she said, “Your coming is a demonstration of our own strength, we need your support and we need your ideas. However little it is we can make a change. Mobilize resources and give to the cause because you are a living testimony."
Dr.Baine revealed to the scholars that the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate is working on a bank product that can easily be accessed by everyone on their mobile phones from anywhere in the world and be able to fulfil their commitments. She assured the Female Scholarship Foundation Alumni of the University’s commitment to take the project to greater heights. On behalf of the Directorate, Dr.Baine pledged to engage different partners and sponsors.
The Deputy Director (Teaching, Learning/ Research & Innovations) in the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate, Ms. Frances Nyachwo appreciated the Alumni for showing interest in brightening the future of their fellow womenfolk. She thanked the FSF Alumni Executive Committee Members for dedicating their time to voluntarily serve the FSF Alumni Association to ensure successful results during the resource mobilization campaign period.
Quoting the famous words of Dr. Loretta Scott, Mr. Eric Tumwesigye noted, ‘‘we cannot help everyone but everyone can help someone”. This initiative starts with us. Before we call for help from someone, lets us have as starting point. We need people to realize that there is a gap when we have at least done something. We therefore invited you as champions of this drive and we trust that you can make an impact that will live in people’s hearts for long,” said Mr. Eric Tumwesigye the Female Scholarship Foundation Desk Officer in the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate.
The fruitful Breakfast Meeting saw the Female Scholarship Foundation Alumni raise over Ug. Shs 37,833,700 Million from individual cash money contributions, pledges, sale of T-Shirts echoing the Resource Mobilisation campaign message, and from auction of a Karimojong item donated by Ms. Lydia Moru an FSF Alumni. In addition, Ms.Kayezu Evelyn pledged to pay full tuition for one academically bright girl from a disadvantaged socio-economic background to access university education at Makerere University for her entire period of study. Ms. Lydia Moru also a Female Scholarship Foundation Alumni pledged to mobilize all the Makerere University Female Scholarship Foundation Alumni from the Karamoja Sub-Region, located in Eastern Uganda.
Among the over 250 Female Scholarship Foundation Alumni that turned up for the breakfast meeting, 162 made on spot financial commitments between ranging from Ug. Shs. 60,000 – Ug. Shs. 2,400,000 annual contributions to the Makerere University Female Scholarship Foundation.
Article by: Makerere University- Public Relations Office and Makerere University Gender Mainstreaming Directorate.
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
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.
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