General

Mak 70th Grad PhD Citations Session 4

Published

6 years ago

January 17, 2020

Mark Wamai

The Head, Department of Performing Arts and Film (PAF)-Dr. Sylvia Nannyonga-Tamusuza and her students lead the Academic Procession out of the Freedom Square on Day 3 of the 70th Graduation, 16th January 2020, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.

College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT)

BAKYAYITA Grace Kizito

Batch Sorption Studies of Aqueous Cadmium and Lead from contaminated Water onto Selected Biosorbents

Mr. Bakyayita Grace Kizito’s study focussed on assessment of groundwater and surface water from Lake Victoria basin, Uganda and batch remediation of cadmium and lead from contaminated water using biosorbents. He used the Biomet tool and potential risks to toxicity effects of Cu²⁺, Ni²⁺, Zn²⁺ and Pb²⁺ in the surface water and groundwater studied. He characterized selected biosorbents and he used models to deduce optimal operating conditions, interionic competition effects, uptake kinetics and mechanisms. He concluded that both untreated and treated biosorbents from Albizia coriaria, Coffea canephora, Cyperus papyrus, Erythrina abyssinica and Musa spp were potential alternative materials for uptake of trace metals from contaminated water. This knowledge will benefit the design of fixed bed reactors for biosorption of trace metals from contaminated water. He recommends detailed risk assessment of water sources and pilot applications for biosorbents. This study was funded by Sida-Makerere Bilateral Research Corporation (Phase 3) and was supervised by Associate Professor Ann-Catrine Norrström and Dr. Robinah Kulabako N.

MENYA Emmanuel

Preparation and Evaluation of Activated Carbons from Rice Husks in Uganda for Removal of Humic Acid from Water

Mr. Menya Emmanuel developed an optimum route for valorization of rice husks into activated carbon to address the disposal problem of rice husks, as well as to provide a sustainable solution for removal of humic acid from water. His study revealed that upland rice husk varieties are more suitable precursors for activated carbon than lowland varieties. By alkaline pretreatment of the rice husks, followed by phosphoric acid (30wt%) impregnation, and activation at 400 ^oC for 30 min, activated carbons with a carbon yield and total specific surface area as high as 46.9% and 2258.4 m²g^-1, respectively, were obtained. The study further revealed that, humic acid removal efficiency and maximum adsorption capacity of 69.23% and 27.2 mgg^-1, respectively, can be obtained by employing the rice husk-derived activated carbons in water treatment. The adsorptive properties, and consequently the performance of the resultant activated carbons were comparable to those of the activated carbons found on the market. The findings of this study pave way for utilizing rice husks in Uganda as activated carbon precursors, avoiding the environmental problems associated with the open dumping and/or burning of rice husks, while at the same time providing a sustainable solution for water treatment. This study was funded by the Volkswagen Foundation, and was supervised by Dr. Peter W. Olupot, Dr. Henning Storz, and Dr. Michael Lubwama.

KEKIMURI Joan (Ms)

Embedded meanings of traditional art forms in cultural practices of Baganda

Ms. KEKIMURI Joan’s study focused on the meanings embedded in traditional art forms used in Baganda cultural practices. Art forms play a pivotal role in strengthening community connections yet modern technological advances threaten their existence. Using ethnography and benchmarking the theory of culture and behavior, Kekimuri through visual narratives established how traditional art forms used in Baganda cultural practices developed, examined their embedded meanings, and the influence of modernization on these practices. The findings revealed that the embedded meanings in cultural practices enabled communities to function, that modernization hampers the use of cultural practices, and communities are forsaking the practices for modern ideologies. This study recommended support of indigenous practices for cultural identity and posterity. The study was funded by Kyambogo University, and was supervised by Assoc. Prof. Kizito Maria Kasule and Prof. Baguma Peter.

College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS)

JOCK BANY MADING Samuel

The role of religion in conflict and peace in Sudan: a historical perspective (1989-2011)

Mr. JOCK BANY MADING Samuel’s research examined the religious conflict, which had divided the Sudan citizens between Muslims and non-Muslims, Arab and non-Arabs and subsequently resulted in division of the largest country in Africa into Sudan and South Sudan. The islamization program which became a rigid ideology in the Sudanese leadership caused sanction against the country, regionally and internationally, and made a great economic setback. The study found fear that if the Sudanese leadership continues with such an ideology, it may lead other parts that feel marginalized politically, economically and ethnically to continue demanding for similar criteria as the South. The research findings implore the Sudanese leadership to change the one-sided ideological program in order to reform the social integration and development. This study was self-funded, and was supervised by Dr. Catherine Jendia and Dr. Paddy Musana.

MUGAMBE Mpiima David

Gender relations in the access to and use of mobile phones and radios in agricultural production in Apac District, northern Uganda

Mr. MUGAMBE Mpiima David investigated the gender relations in the access to and use of mobile phones and radios in agricultural production in Apac District. Gender relations were found to mediate mobile phones and radios uptake. Farmers using agricultural information from these technologies experienced positive changes in gender power relations, gender roles, social status and incomes. The study recommended that technological interventions should be sensitive to interactions between men and women, and that agricultural extension officers should be sensitized on gender relations so that men and women can fully benefit from agricultural interventions. This study was funded by Makerere-Sida Bilateral Research Corporation, and was supervised by Dr. Henry Manyire, Assoc. Prof. Consolata Kabonesa and Dr. Margareta Espling.

NAJJEMBA Harriet (Ms)

Indigenous agricultural knowledge and food production in Uganda: Buganda region from 1860s to 1997

Ms. NAJJEMBA Harriet’s research analysed why some indigenous agricultural practices have become resilient and still inform crop production despite western scientific agricultural knowledge. She found that mulching reduces moisture loss, curbs weed growth and provides organic manure thus reducing effects of climate change. Intercropping, crop rotation, paspalum bunding, catch-pits, and fallowing maintain soil fertility. Select agricultural machinery aligned to tropics, topography and soil type enhances crop yields. The research established that these indigenous practices are still relevant and affordable, and NARO needs to deliberately encourage their use. This study was funded by Carnegie Corporation of New York through the NGAA Project and the African Humanities Programme (AHP), and was supervised by Dr. Simon Peter Rutabajuuka and Dr. Deo Katono Nzarwa.

NAKANGU Bugembe Barbara (Ms)

State Craft in the Natural Resources Management Structure of Uganda

Ms. NAKANGU Bugembe Barbara examined the historical and political circumstances in which the natural resources management structures were established. Nakangu situated the natural resource management within the political context of successive post-colonial regimes. Reforms in natural resource management link to the political orientation of various governments especially their ideas on the management of society. Nakangu showed why attempts at strengthening the resource management structures by the NRM government were unable to address the ecological challenges. Ecological disasters arose at moments when there was imbalance of power between the state or society. Conservation actors needed to re-establish the balance of power between the state and the society to address the declining ecological conditions. This study was funded by Norhed and Carnegie through Makerere Institute of Social Research, and was supervised by Dr. Lyn Ossome.

ODONGOH Stevens Aguto

Polluted boundaries, contested sociality: tracing the Acholi homestead after LRA war and displacement in northern Uganda

Mr. ODONGOH Stevens Aguto demonstrated an understanding of borders/boundaries beyond the usual territorial or geographical perspective. By exploring the return of displaced Acholi people to post-conflict Acholi sub-region in northern Uganda, he argued that: When the Acholi who were held captives by the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA), or were living in exile returned and society accepted them, in a sense, they were socially received but had to ritually or religiously cross different boundaries to regain belonging and sociality. Crossing such boundaries led to contestations of gender roles, identity and values. His analysis offers perspectives on resettling returnees, the human need for boundaries/borders during uncertainty and the capacity to cross them, and signifies how people draw boundaries or separate themselves in periods of uncertainty. This study was funded by NORHED under the Borderlands Dynamics Project of East Africa, and was supervised by Dr. Wotsuna Khamalwa and Dr. Andrew Ellias State.

OPESEN Chris Columbus

Trans-border cultural and reproductive health traditions: an ethnographic study of the Pokot female genital modifications at the Kenya-Uganda-Border

Mr. OPESEN Chris Columbus examined the lived experiences of women with trans-border cultural and reproductive health (CRH) traditions using female genital modifications (FGM) at the Pokot Kenya-Uganda border as his ethnographic case. Based on the inductive analysis he conducted, he observed that one’s experience with cultural and reproductive health traditions like FGM is an outcome of many factors including the nature of tradition undergone, the technology used, the skillfulness and experience of the surgeon. Notwithstanding, some exceptions, he argued that the life-long experiences of women that undergo extreme CRH traditions like FGM especially, infibulation, are synonymous with pain, violence and risk. To successfully eliminate FGM, he recommends supporting the current FGM-law enforcement with a soft approach targeting the software of this tradition using meaningful stakeholder engagements. This study was funded by the NORAD East African Borderlands Project, and was supervised by Assoc. Prof. Stella Neema and Dr. Fred Henry Bateganya

WELDESENBET Netsanet Gebremichael (Ms)

Topographies of reminiscences: Asmara as historical representations and deliberations

Ms. WELDESENBET Netsanet Gebremichael examined “neither war nor peace” (1998-2016) moment of historico-political raptures between Eritrea and Ethiopia from reminisces of Asmara – the capital city of Eritrea from Ethiopia in what appears to be a moment of rift. Foregrounding a context of non-movement, the dissertation asked: what happens to conventional historical methods in a moment of raptures? The dissertation opened methodological possibilities on how history could be done in moments of rift by mobilizing popular memory productions in form of oral–accounts with popular cultural productions such as autobiographies, memoirs, songs, novels and poetry. These reminiscing practices were conceptualized deliberations on popular political desires of the present. These accounts can further inform going peace-building efforts between the two countries. This study was funded by Carnegie through Makerere Institute of Social Research, and was supervised by Prof. Mahmood Mamdani.

School of Law

TUSASIRWE Benson

The judicial enforcement of the rights to freedom of political assembly and association in Uganda

Mr. TUSASIRWE Benson investigated the state of rights to freedom of political assembly and association in Uganda and the role that courts have played in their enforcement. The study found that although the concept of human rights has achieved reasonable normativity, on the ground the state of those rights remains precarious due the ideological character or content of the rights, and the political and socio-economic environment. While the courts of judicature have made bold decisions in defence of the rights, these have not gone far enough. It is contended that in the absence of a fundamental change in the political and socio-economic order, courts will not conceivably act as consistent guardians of the rights. The study was funded by Makerere University and SHUREA project, and was supervised by Frederick Jjuuko and Prof. Joe Oloka-Onyango.

Please click the links below to navigate to the PhD Citations for the respective Sessions.

< Director’s Message | Session 1: Part1: Part2 : Part3 | Session 2 | Session 3 | Session 4 >

#Mak70thGrad

General

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

Published

9 hours ago

July 18, 2025

Eve Nakyanzi

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 16^th 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 25^th 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 18^th 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 25^th 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

General

Public University Legal and Accounting Officers Trained on Governance and Compliance

Published

2 days ago

July 17, 2025

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.

*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.

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 18^th 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 ago

July 17, 2025

Mak Editor

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.