General
Ms. Claudia Frittelli – Carnegie Corporation of New York visits Mak
The Program Officer, Higher Education and Research in Africa, International Program of the Carnegie Corporation of New York (CCNY) Ms. Claudia Frittelli was on Thursday 1st September, 2022 hosted by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe at a special Top Management Meeting as part of her institutional visit. Ms. Frittelli’s interaction with Makerere goes back to 2006 when she was part of the team that oversaw the implementation of CCNY’s Institutional Strengthening grant to the University.
In his welcome remarks, the Vice Chancellor thanked Carnegie for being one of entities that helped Makerere University regain her footing after the turbulent years of political upheaval. He particularly singled out the Corporation’s role in revitalising the construction industry in the 1990s through supporting the introduction of programmes in quantity and valuation surveying. The same concept, he noted, was used to introduce the Bachelor and later Master of Science in Construction Management.
“At that time there were few quantity surveyors in Uganda and they were almost no valuation surveyors… since the introduction of those programmes, the construction industry has greatly improved… and almost all the people heading the Departments in Government dealing with these issues are all coming out of the programme which the Carnegie Corporation supported” highlighted Prof. Nawangwe, who served as Head of the Department of Architecture and Physical Planning from 1987 to 2002.
The Vice Chancellor also paid to tribute to CCNY for supporting Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM), the Consortium for Advanced Research Training in Africa (CARTA) and the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA), which he currently chairs. ARUA aims at enhancing research and graduate training in Africa through, among other channels, the establishment of Centres of Excellence (CoEs) in sixteen (16) member universities spread across ten (10) countries. The Alliance currently has thirteen (13) multidisciplinary CoEs tackling thematic areas of
Citing the World Bank recommendation for the African continent to produce at least 100,000 PhDs within the next ten years in order to achieve Agenda 2063, Prof. Nawangwe outlined that the current Makerere University Strategic Plan seeks to make the institution more research-led by among other activities, training more more graduate students, who will contribute to the target. Makerere‘s membership to consortia such as ARUA, through which it hosts the Centre of Excellence in Notions of Identity in Africa it is anticipated, will enhance the attainment of this strategic thrust.
The Vice Chancellor further outlined Makerere‘s plans to establish an innovation hub to support the huge capacity that has been built over the years. “We now have a lot of trained researchers who have the potential to come up with innovations and we are working with UNDP to establish the innovation hub.”
The Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) and Director, Directorate of Research and Graduate Training (DRGT), Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi in his remarks thanked Ms. Frittelli for being an eminent and longtime friend of Makerere. He noted that whereas CCNY started relations with Uganda in 1946, the post-independence political turmoil resulted in decades of suspension of operations by the Corporation, which resumed 2001-2004 with support to institutional research management at Makerere.
Prof. Buyinza added that this was followed by programmes from 2006-2008 and 2008-2011 aimed at strengthening research capacity at Makerere. The programme on nurturing the Next Generation of African Academics (NGAA) followed from 2010-2012, and subsequently the 2013-2016 NGAA Phase II that focused on retention of nurtured academics. 2017 marked the beginning of a phase on Nurturing Emerging Research Leaders through Post-Doctoral (NERLP) Training, which was followed by the 2019-2021 Supporting Early-Career Academics (SECA) programme.
“Currently, we are consolidating the Supporting Early-Career Academics (SECA) programme at Makerere, albeit innovatively. We have gone beyond the boundaries of Makerere and are working with four partner public Universities in this country… We identified Kyambogo, Busitema, Gulu and Mbarara University of Science and Technology” he explained.
Prof. Buyinza said that the current programme is supporting 25 post-doctoral fellowships; 15 from Makerere and 10 from the partner public universities. The support is aimed at consolidating the research capacity of early-career academics to enhance their research productivity and ability to contribute effectively to global knowledge generation.
He added that efforts are underway to prioritise research communication so as to enable dissemination of academic results to policy makers, while contributing to capacity building and opportunities of female academics. “The gender dimension is key and in this phase we have moved from 10% to 30%, and now Makerere is implementing 50% share-out.”
Ms. Frittelli in her remarks acknowledged the warm reception by Management, admitting that it was a pleasure to be back at Makerere where she participated in the institutional strengthening programme. The programme supported the formation of directorates to oversee Research and Graduate Training, Gender Mainstreaming, ICT and stregthened components in Distance Education. She added that it was good to witness Principal Investigators of projects that Carnegie had supported taking up Vice Chancellor roles in other universities as well as other Senior Administrative positions.
The Program Officer paid tribute to Vartan Gregorian, the late President under whose over 20-year tenure until his sudden death in April 2021, CCNY supported and continues to support higher education and research in Africa. She informed Management that the CCNY Board after a search appointed Prof. Louise Richardson, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Oxford, to serve as the corporation’s next President effective January 2023. Her hope, she said, was that the new President who has a background in higher education would continue supporting Africa’s undertakings in the same sector.
“…these kinds of meetings are coming at a very important time as it is interesting to hear how the grant is evolving, so that we can also inform her of the role of Makerere in the country, the continent and your participation in all these networks” added Ms. Frittelli.
The Program Officer during her visit interacted with members of the SECA Project Implementation Committee (PIC) in various colleges as well as post-doctoral grantees.
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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