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Mak Leadership Vows to Put God First in the Next 100 Years

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By Ritah Namisango

“In the next 100 years of Makerere University, we are going to put God first,” proclaimed the Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, amidst ululations from the congregation that convened at the Freedom Square on Friday 7th October 2022 to celebrate God’s love towards Makerere University. The congregation consisted of the Chancellor, Prof. Ezra Suruma, members of the University Council and Senate, religious leaders, University Management, Principals, Deputy Principals, Deans, Directors, Heads of Department, academic, administrative and support staff as well as the Leadership and the faithful from Pastor Robert Kayanja Ministries.

Dr. Juliane Sansa Otim (L) from College of Computing and Information Sciences led the opening prayer.

Reflecting on the history of Makerere’s humble beginnings as a technical school with 14 day students in 1922 to its admirable growth over the years into a renowned university impacting lives worldwide, the Vice Chancellor remarked that there is evidence that God’s power, grace, mercy and love has been bestowed upon this great institution. He vowed to work with the University leadership at all levels, staff and religious leaders to ensure that God takes centre stage at the University.

The Vice Chancellor commended the religious leaders in Uganda for always dedicating time to pray for Makerere University. He noted that the University Chaplains (St. Francis Chapel and St. Augustine Chapel) as well as the Imam of the University Mosque had played a central role in the spiritual life of the University. He was delighted that on 2nd September 2022, the Mak@100 National Day of prayer organized by the University in conjunction with the Inter-Religious Council attracted a significant number of leaders of the different denominations as well as staff, students and believers. The gathering at the Freedom Square with one accord thanked God for the gift of Makerere University and its achievements over the 100 years (1922-
2022).

Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe speaking to the congregants.

Prof. Nawangwe was filled with joy that Pastor Robert Kayanja Ministries had in the same vein, partnered with staff at Makerere University, the #MakerereAt00 Organising Committee and Secretariat, and his wife Mrs. Susan Nawangwe to organize a Corporate Prayer Breakfast and Luncheon to once again lift up the name of the Almighty God at Makerere University.

He therefore applauded Pastors, Robert and Jessica Kayanja for choosing to partner with Makerere University during the celebrations to mark 100 years of excellent service to humanity and transformation.

Moved by the videos of people in Karamoja starving to death and the fundraising campaign through “The Karamoja Cry” being undertaken by the Robert Kayanja Ministries, the Vice Chancellor pledged to champion Pastor Robert and Jessica Kayanja’s Karamoja initiative at Makerere University. In this regard, Prof. Nawangwe announced a fundraising drive towards addressing the food insecurity in Karamoja sub-region. Prof. Nawangwe pledged to reach out to members of staff at Makerere University to contribute money and relief items in order to save the people of Karamoja from hunger and death.

Dr. Milton Wabyona from Department of Performing Arts instruct a choir comprised of students and alumni.

Responding to Pastor Kayanja and Prof. Nawangwe’s plea to mobilise funds to save people from hunger, Dr. Sarah Ssali reiterated the need for a long-term and sustainable programme to address food insecurity. She observed that whereas Africa has received the biggest investment in agriculture, the continent still remains a continent of famine and hunger. “As we collect the money, we should note that this is a short term plan. We should come up with a long term plan. It is also important for us the academics to think long term. Are we just wired to fit the standards of our American and European funders or are we located in the problems of society that we live in,” she questioned.

Rev. Onesimus Asiimwe – Chaplain, St Francis Chapel Makerere University was present.

The Principal of the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences at Makerere University, Dr. Gorettie Nabanoga pledged to rally academics in her college to work with the Vice Chancellor, religious leaders and the leaders in Karamoja to understand the underlying problems and come up with informed programmes focusing on food security in the region.

Addressing the audience that filled the grand tent set in Freedom Square to capacity, the Chancellor, Prof. Ezra Suruma testified that he is a living example of God’s love and loving kindness. “I was once a student. God has lifted me from humble beginnings over the years to levels of leadership,” he said. He urged God’s people to always pray, love and believe in God. He paid special tribute to his wife, Mrs. Specioza Suruma and thanked her for being a woman of faith.

Chancellor Prof. Ezra Suruma

A prominent alumna and Editor-in-Chief at the Vision Group, Mrs. Barbara Kaija glorified God for the nurturing and great mentorship that she received while studying at Makerere University. Beaming with pride, she acknowledged the great efforts and dedication from her teachers and faculty at the Department of Literature at Makerere University whose focus is supporting their students to achieve their full God-given potential. She therefore used the golden opportunity to congratulate her alma-mater upon celebrating her centennial anniversary and prayed that God’s providence and the power of the Holy Spirit will be the hallmarks of the next 100 years at Makerere University.

Mrs. Barbara Kaija

Mrs. Kaija is a woman of faith. She disclosed to the audience that her success at work, in life, marriage and family life was premised on God and her choice of salvation.

Turning to the man of God, Mrs. Kaija informed the audience that it is Pastor Kayanja who prophesied about promotion and elevation in her career path, at a time when she did not have any idea that something great was going to happen in her life.

“Pastor Robert Kayanja proclaimed Barbara Kaija you are going to be promoted. I see your promotion coming very soon. I looked at him. I said, Pastor Robert Kayanja is a very nice man who wishes others well, but I did not believe what he was saying about my promotion. I was very hard working and professional, but the system was not that easy to navigate. However, his prophesy came to pass, I was promoted and elevated. After some time, another promotion also unfolded,” she said amidst applause from the congregation.

In her speech, Mrs. Susan Nawangwe emphasized the power of prayer, fasting and believing in God. She revealed that 7 th October 2022 will always serve as a special moment in her spiritual journey, in remembrance of the day when University leadership, staff, religious leaders with support from Pastor Robert Kayanja Ministries gathered in the Freedom Square to praise and worship God for His continued love and benevolence upon Makerere University. Mrs. Nawangwe prayed that God would continue to bless Makerere University and to manifest His power in the institution’s next 100 years.

Pastors Robert and Jessica Kayanja

Pastors Robert and Jessica Kayanja declared that they are proud to be associated with Makerere University as it celebrates 100 years of excellent service to humanity and journey of growth and remarkable achievements. Pastor Robert Kayanja revealed that the 7th October 2022 assembly in the Freedom Square was dedicated to invoking the power of the Holy Spirit at this great institution, so that its latter 100 years would be greater than the former in all aspects.

“I praise God for the opportunity. I believe that it has been the spirit of God. The next
100 years will usher in a spiritual beginning to this university. We will realise a spiritual healing,” he proclaimed.

Accompanied by his wife-Pastor Jessica Kayanja and son-Robert Kayanja Junior, Pastor Robert Kayanja recalled with nostalgia his wedding reception that took place at the Freedom Square 31 years ago. He revealed that Makerere University especially the Freedom Square occupies a special place in his life.

Associate Professor Sarah Ssali (Dean-School of Women and Gender Studies)

“On my wedding day, I received my first meal as a husband, from my bride-Jessica Kayanja, from this very place, the Freedom Square. I am happy to stand here today, as Makerere University celebrates 100 years of existence. To God be the glory. So, Mr. Vice Chancellor, whenever I feel like coming to Makerere University, kindly always allow me, for the Freedom Square occupies a special place in my life,” he said.

Preaching the word, Pastor Robert Kayanja thanked God for the contribution Makerere University has made not only in terms of human capital development, but also Uganda’s economic development.

He called upon students, staff and any person attached to the mighty Makerere University to focus with faith, commitment and in prayer so that they too will one day have a remarkable story to share about their transformation. Pastor Kayanja shared his belief that the good Lord blesses abundantly and lifts from humble beginnings to greater heights, from glory to glory, the man or woman who plays their part in faith and hope.

“In the bible, a little boy called Joseph was sold into slavery, thrown in prison, was used to do all sorts of work but never lost focus, kept his faith in God Almighty and his story turned out different. Joseph ended up holding bigger positions in Pharaoh’s Palace, the King of Egypt at the time,” Pastor Kayanja said.

He added that Joseph not only became a leader in the Kingdom of Egypt, but also controlled their land, food and finances. Pastor Kayanja in concluding rallied staff of Makerere University to thank God for the jobs they hold, serve the University and people with dedication, work to the best of their ability and remain faithful to God.

His wife and friend, Pastor Jessica Kayanja mentioned that reaching 100 years is neither by one’s might nor luck, but by blessing from the Almighty God.

Quoting from of Isaiah 65:20 where Jesus talked about the New Jerusalem she said, “If it does not live up to 100 years may be there is a curse. Therefore, I wish to proclaim that Makerere University has lived to see the biblical word, very blessed above limits,” Pastor Jessica Kayanja remarked. She also gave an example of the father of faith, Abraham who had lived many years childless but at 100 years, was blessed with a son who became a promise and a blessing.

The Writer, Ritah Namisango moved by the Word of God.

To officially seal the Mak@100 memories as Makerere University embarks on its journey for the next century, the Chancellor-Prof. Ezra Suruma and Mrs. Specioza Suruma, the Vice Chancellor-Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and Mrs. Susan Nawangwe and Pastors-Robert and Jessica Kayanja posed for a photo at the Mak@100 monument that was unveiled by H.E Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President of the Republic of Uganda on Thursday 6 th October 2022. The Mak@100 monument that signifies Makerere University’s readiness to grow and excel beyond limits was designed by members of staff from the Margaret Trowel School of Industrial and Fine Art and funded by Excel Construction Limited.

Driven by the desire to amplify the works of the holy spirit, Pastors Robert and Jessica Kayanja together with Prof. Ezra Suruma and Mrs. Specioza Suruma, and Mrs. Susan Nawangwe, Associate Professor Sarah Ssali (Dean-School of Women and Gender Studies) and Ms. Ritah Namisango (Principal Public Relations Officer) prayed for the completion of buildings that were under construction. Sites prayed over included the Main Building under re-construction, the Makerere University Sports Arena just next to the swimming pool, the School of Women and Gender Studies (that is being expanded as per the original plan). Pastor Robert Kayanja
dedicated the construction sites, contractors and builders to God and prayed for an overflow of resources so that buildings may be completed to serve their purpose.

Pastor Kayanja and Prof. Suruma praying at the construction site of Main Building

“Dear Lord and powerful God, we pray that you bless the buildings and works under construction so that they come to completion within the shortest period possible. We
would like to return Lord, to witness and glorify your name, in the shortest time possible,” he prayed, to which all present assented, ‘Amen.”

The spiritual engagements at the Freedom Square were moderated by the following members of staff; Dr. Twine Bananuka, Dean-School of Distance and Life Long learning at the College of Education and External Studies, Associate Professor Sarah Ssali, Dean-School of Women and Gender Studies-College of Humanities and Social Sciences, and Pastor Julianne Susanne Sansa Otim, an Associate Professor at the College of Computing and Information Sciences.

Befitting hymns of praise and worship captivated God’s people at the Freedom Square who remained lively throughout the invocation of the holy spirit on 7th October 2022 from 7:30am to 2:55 pm.

Following the prayer breakfast and luncheon, Pastors Robert and Jessica Kayanja
proceeded to the Makerere University Main Sports Grounds for the Miracle crusade.

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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.

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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.

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