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Tanzanian PM Rt. Hon. Majaliwa Graces Islam@75 & MUMSA@50 Celebrations

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The clouds gathered as the clock struck midday, threatening to pour out their rain, perhaps to bless the day’s proceedings, as the Muslim community gathered on Saturday 17th December 2022 at the Main Campus to celebrate 75 years of Islam and 50 years of the Makerere University Muslim Students Association (MUMSA). Suddenly, and as if sensing that the dignitaries were about to arrive, the dark clouds cleared, giving way to a bright sunny afternoon. Right on cue, a grand motorcade gently made its way to the Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, stopping right in front of the Main Entrance. Out he alighted, graceful, resplendent in his flowing white tunic to exchange Salaams with the welcoming party.

Rt. Hon. Kassim Majaliwa Majaliwa, Prime Minister of the United Republic of Tanzania and Chief Guest at the celebrations had arrived, accompanied by the Tanzania Chief Mufti – Sheikh Dr. Aboubakary Zubeiry, Zanzibar Grand Mufti Sheikh Saleh bin Omar Kaabi, Ministers, Tanzanian High Commissioner to Uganda – H.E. Dr. Aziz Ponary Mlima and other dignitaries. On hand to receive the Chief Guest were the Minister for Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs – Hon. Hajjat Minsa Kabanda, Acting Vice Chancellor and Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) – Prof. Umar Kakumba, Turkish Ambassador – H.E. Fikret Kerem Alp represented by his Deputy, Uganda Supreme Mufti – Sheikh Muhammad Shaban Galabuzi, Deputy Supreme Mufti – Sheikh Abdallah Semambo, Dean of Students – Mrs. Winifred Kabumbuli, Principal College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) – Prof. Josephine Ahikire, University Imaam – Dr. Sowed Juma Mayanja, Patron MUMSA – Dr. Muhammad Kiggundu Musoke, Head Department of Journalism and Communication and Chairperson Makerere University Muslim Staff Association (MUMSTAF) – Dr. Aisha Sembatya Nakiwala and other officials.

Welcoming the Chief Guest, Prof. Kakumba conveyed the warm greetings of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe who was away on official duty and thanked Rt. Hon. Majaliwa for leading the delegation to represent the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, H.E. Samia Suluhu Hassan at the esteemed occasion. “Makerere has grown by leaps and bounds from the good establishment and relationship it has enjoyed with the people and Government of the United Republic of Tanzania.”

Part of the Welcoming Party (Right to Left): Hon. Hajjat Minsa Kabanda, Prof. Abasi Kiyimba (rear), Prof. Umar Kakumba, Sheikh Abdallah Semambo, Sheikh Muhammad Shaban Galabuzi, Deputy Turkish Ambassador, Muslim Official, Dr. Sowed Juma Mayanja, MUMSA Official, Prof. Juma Kasozi and Dr. Muhammad Kiggundu Musoke.
Part of the Welcoming Party (Right to Left): Hon. Hajjat Minsa Kabanda, Prof. Abasi Kiyimba (rear), Prof. Umar Kakumba, Sheikh Abdallah Semambo, Sheikh Muhammad Shaban Galabuzi, Deputy Turkish Ambassador, Muslim Official, Dr. Sowed Juma Mayanja, MUMSA Official, Prof. Juma Kasozi and Dr. Muhammad Kiggundu Musoke.

The Acting Vice Chancellor added that the University Mosque, officially opened in May 1948 by His Highness Crown Prince Abdulla of Zanzibar, is testimony of this good relationship that has existed between Makerere and the Sultan of Zanzibar.

Prof. Kakumba noted that the University Management nevertheless takes cognizance of the fact that Makerere is a secular university that highly respects and gives due consideration to the different religious affiliations and the freedom of worship. “It is the reason why the Management has been very supportive of the different sects of religion and creating opportunity for their growth and engagement of knowledge. For example, under the leadership of the Principal of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Makerere University hosts many centres of languages, among them the Centre for Arabic Language.”

He concluded by admitting that in addition to priding itself in a century of training Human Capital and leadership for the region such as Tanzania’s Founding Father H.E. Julius Kambarage Nyerere, Makerere University is privileged to host the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre. He therefore requested the Rt. Hon. Prime Minister to convey the institution’s warm greetings to H.E. Suluhu Hassan, whose role as Head of State has inspired many young women particularly those of the Muslim faith to take on leadership roles.

Left to Right: Prof. Abasi Kiyimba, Dr. Muhammad Kiggundu Musoke and Dr. Sowed Juma Mayanja address the gathering.
Left to Right: Prof. Abasi Kiyimba, Dr. Muhammad Kiggundu Musoke and Dr. Sowed Juma Mayanja address the gathering.

Congratulating Makerere upon celebrating 100 years of existence, Rt. Hon. Majaliwa Majaliwa recognized the University’s prestigious role in educating leaders for the region in general and H.E. Mwalimu Julius Nyerere and H.E. Benjamin Mkapa of Tanzania in particular.

“I also understand the relationship you have between Makerere and the University of Dar-es-Salaam and the programme of exchange of students. This is of course making the East African Community to be strong, and we expect to establish a lot of programmes that will develop our colleges” added the Rt. Hon. Prime Minister.

In the true spirit of the East African Community, Rt. Hon. Majaliwa Majaliwa delivered his congratulatory remarks in Kiswahili.

“I am happy to be here today because of two important reasons, one is we are celebrating 75 years of Islam and the second one, the Chief Guest today is going to deliver the speech through Kiswahili, which is the EAC language and AU language, so I will try to go slowly so that you don’t get lost” he counseled, much to the amusement of the majority English-speaking audience.

The Deputy Turkish Ambassador represented H.E. Fikret Kerem Alp.
The Deputy Turkish Ambassador represented H.E. Fikret Kerem Alp.

Prior to the Chief Guest’s address, the Deputy Turkish Ambassador in his remarks acknowledged that Makerere plays a vital role in developing human capital for the improvement of Uganda and the East African Community, “I think this country is lucky to have such a well-established and qualified university because education of new generations is the most essential part of development and stability of the country.”

He added that the Republic of Turkey seeks mutual gains and interests in its relationship with Uganda through humanitarian efforts that reach out to every corner of the country. “Currently, my Ambassador is in Lira, which is proof of our struggle to reach out to every corner of Uganda.”

Delivering a highly abridged version of his keynote address owing to the activity-packed programme, Prof. Abasi Kiyimba started by sharing that in 1997, Makerere was privileged to host both H.E. Benjamin Mkapa and H.E. Ali Hassan Mwinyi as the University, Islam and MUMSA celebrated 75, 50 and 25 years of existence respectively.  He added that Makerere had benefited most from the Southern route through which Islam reached Buganda Kingdom from Zanzibar, in the form of teachers, scholars and the brand of Islam practiced. The other two routes through which Islam reached Uganda and Buganda Kingdom were the Eastern route through Mombasa and Northern route through Sudan.

The Head Department of Journalism and Communication and Chairperson Makerere University Muslim Staff Association (MUMSTAF), Dr. Aisha Sembatya Nakiwala delivers her welcome remarks.
The Head Department of Journalism and Communication and Chairperson Makerere University Muslim Staff Association (MUMSTAF), Dr. Aisha Sembatya Nakiwala delivers her welcome remarks.

He added that the formation of MUMSA in 1972 was a significant development in the history of the Muslim Community, for it helped to formalize the Association’s membership and constitution as well as nurture leaders such as the founding Chairman Dr. Makumbi, now a retired Doctor in Kasese. Turning to the fundamental role played by the Sultanate of Zanzibar in donating the first University Mosque, Prof. Kiyimba said “we cherish very much our relationship with the Muslims and people of Zanzibar.”

The Chairperson MUMSTAF Dr. Aisha Nakiwala in her welcome remarks thanked the University Management for various infrastructure projects that have benefited the Muslim community, and support extended to Students’ activities. She thanked the Chief Guest  for gracing the event and requested him communicate to H.E. Suluhu Hassan that her invitation to visit Makerere University and address the community still stands and remains highly anticipated particularly by the female Muslim Staff and Students.

The celebrations notwithstanding, when the call for prayer was made, the Chief Guest, visiting delegation and Muslim faithful put the day’s proceedings on hold and made their way to the University Mosque. The proceedings, ably moderated by Dr. Muhammad Kiggundu Musoke were graced by the past leadership of MUMSA, most notably Hon. Al Hajji Latif Ssebagala – Chairman MUMSA (1992-1994), whose energetic salaams to the faithful led smiles to break across their faces.

The Patron MUMSA Dr. Muhammad Kiggundu Musoke (2nd Right) introduces Former and Current Chairmen of MUMSA who included Hon. Al Hajji Latif Ssebagala (Right) and former Imaam Sheik Ahmed Ssentongo (6th Left).
The Patron MUMSA Dr. Muhammad Kiggundu Musoke (2nd Right) introduces Former and Current Chairmen of MUMSA who included Hon. Al Hajji Latif Ssebagala (Right) and former Imaam Sheik Ahmed Ssentongo (6th Left).

The current Chairman MUMSA Mr. Noordin Mutebi appealed to the gathering to support the association’s outreaches to less privileged communities in Uganda, by procuring a bus to help transport participants and eliminate one of the biggest recurring expenses. Responding to all the requests put forth, Rt. Hon. Majaliwa offered to update H.E. Suluhu Hassan on the invitation to visit Makerere. He equally pledged to contribute Six (6) Million Tanzanian Shillings to help various causes of the Muslim community and work together with the leadership to address the bus issue raised by the MUMSA Chairman.

Mark Wamai

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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.

Eve Nakyanzi
Eve Nakyanzi

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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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