General
Students Champion the Campaign Against Sexual Harassment
Makerere University Gender Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD) in partnership with UN women, Swedish Embassy and NBS TV capped the 16 days of Women Activism by celebrating the late Susan Oregede who was a key champion in the struggle of ending violence Against Women and Girls.
In the annual event of the Two4One Talent for change Against sexual Harassment contest grand finale on the 9th December 2020 at Next Media conference Center, the Director Makerere Gender Mainstreaming Directorate Dr. Euzobia Mugisha Baine, noted that the Two4One campaign is aimed at increasing awareness of the problem of sexual harassment and tapping into student’s innovativeness to strength their agency in the prevention and response to sexual harassment, through thinking and doing what they love most (edutainment) where students either individually or in groups, work on innovative songs, drama skits, poems and dances which are used as ambassadorial messages within their Universities and communities. And that unlike last year’s grand finale, where 15,000 students filled Makerere University Freedom Square in just one night, this year’s campaign was affected by the COVID-19 challenges and thus the concert was largely virtual with majority following through the NBS TV live cast and all the social media handles of the organisers.
Dr. Euzobia Mugisha Baine noted that for purposes of having more students from other universities in the campaigns, a Two4One campaign website was created (two4one campaign.mak.ac.ug) through which students from all Universities and tertiary institutions created accounts, uploaded videos and mobilized their fellow students to participate through voting. Makerere University, Gulu University, Uganda Christian University (UCU), Bugema University, Kyambogo University, Buganda Royal Institute, Busitema University, Kampala University, Muteesa 1 Royal University and MAT Abacus business School, Mbarara University Science and Technology (MUST) registered to participate in the contest. And that 167 students registered, 62 of these were females and 105 were males. Out of these, 50 were able to compose and submit their pieces within a period of three weeks. Out of the 50, 15 were females and 35 were males and on the 1st December 2020, these were presented to the judges and out of the 50 contestants presented 15 were recommended to the grand finale.
Dr. Euzobia Mugisha Baine recognized students from universities and tertiary institutions for responding to the call and revealed that Makerere University and GMD would like to partner with those institutions to implement programs that end sexual and other forms of gender-based violence (GBV).
Remarking the relevance of the GMD at the mighty hill, Dr. Euzobia Mugisha Baine thanked Makerere University Management through the Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawange for the commitment to the zero tolerance to sexual harassment and noted that currently Makerere University is taking on the lead in fighting against sexual harassment.
She also showed gratitude to the UN Women and the Embassy of Sweden in Uganda for their unfailing partnership in prevention and response to sexual harassment at Makerere University and for their efforts to make the event happen.
“I want to thank UN women and the Swedish Embassy in Uganda for your strong and consistent partnership in prevention and response to sexual harassment at Makerere University. I thank you particularly for making this event happen,” expressed Dr. Euzobia Mugisha Baine.
Speaking on behalf of UN Women, Ms. Evely Letiyo echoed that sexual harassment robs off girl’s dreams and that it doesn’t only affect them physically but also emotionally thus called upon everyone to stand out against sexual violence.
She further reflected on her past 15 years as an Assistant lecturer, where students would approach her in office and report to her cases of sexual harassment and she had no solution to them, but after joining UN Women, with the responsibility of Ending Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWA) in Uganda, sexual harassment and Gender Based Violence, she can now fight against as well as sensitize others about the evil. She added that students’ voices matter a lot thus calling upon all universities to stand up and respond positively by having an open to the students say.
Speaking on behalf of the judges, Ms. Eleanor Nabwiso applauded GMD for boldly standing against the sex for marks vice by helping the victims.
She commended the students from all universities who participated in the challenge and congratulated the 3 winners upon the big achievement and urged them to continue passing on the message to others and noted that the coaches did a grateful job in polishing of the contestants’ composition. Amidst the chants, the winners were awarded as follows:
Ms. Angel Kene a 3rd year student at Makerere University doing Bachelors of Social Works and Social Administration merged the winner and was awarded the Susan Oregede Award of Excellence, 5 million Uganda shillings.
Timothy Mutebi a 3rd year student at Makerere University pursuing Bachelors of Arts in Music emerged the 2rd runner up and was awarded the Susan Oregede Award of Excellence of 4 million Uganda shillings.
Bint Kasedde a 3rd year student at Makerere University pursuing Bachelors of Education emerged the 3rd winner and was awarded the Susan Oregede Award of Excellence of 3 million Uganda shillings and a certificate of participation.
All the contestants were awarded a certificate of participation.
The Minister of Gender in the 85th cabinet of Makerere University Students Guild Ms. Marion Kirabo enlightened that in their tenure of office as leaders of the University, the Guild President HE Julius Kateregga and his team decided to come up with a solution of having students sensitized about sexual harassment and that’s how they came out with the two4one challenge/ campaign. The campaign was organised by Gender Mainstreaming Directorate and UN Women which has turned into an annual event.
During her performance, singer Spice Diana, reflected back on her days while at university, and revealed that she once faced sexual harassment while at the university but she stood firm and said no to the oppressor and called upon everyone to stand out and kick the vice out of the universities.
“Don’t keep quite when you see or hear sexual harassment. Speak out,” She said.
The event was crowned by entertainment from the B2C who also called for an end of the Gender Based Violence.
Mr. Eric Tumwesigye, Senior Gender Officer at GMD expressed appreciation to all the students who participated in the competition amidst end of Semester exams. He congratulated the winners and urged others not to give up as more campaigns are still coming up.
Mr. Tumwesigye concluded his remarks by thanking the judges; Mr. Benon Mugumbya, Ms. Elneor Nabwiso and Ms. Naava Grey for accepting to take on the role. He further recognized the Department of Performing Arts Makerere University particularly Dr. Branco Sekalega, Mr. Phillip Luswata and Ms. Juliet Sessanga for the great job they did in training the 15 students and ensuring that they were ready for the grand finale.
The event was hosted by Mr. Obed Obedgiu Kwokuboth Jalmeo a third year student at Makerere University and Ms. Sheila Salta of NBS TV
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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