General
AICAD Selected to Host Africa Open Science Platform Regional Node
Published
2 years agoon
By
Mak Editor
“The African Institute for Capacity Development (AICAD) has been selected to host the Africa Open Science Platform (AOSP) Node for the Eastern Africa region. This is a key milestone aimed at advancing scientific research and data sharing on the African continent,” said the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe during a press conference held on Wednesday 12th July 2023.
The Vice Chancellor who was joined by Dr. Gaston Ampe Tumuhimbise, the Country Director, AICAD Uganda Office informed journalists gathered in the Council Room, Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, Makerere University that AICAD will host AOSP node for a period of five years effective June 2023.
The Press Release follows below:
PRESS RELEASE: AICAD SELECTED TO HOST AFRICA OPEN SCIENCE PLATFORM (AOSP) NODE FOR EASTERN AFRICA REGION
After a very rigorous and competitive process, the National Research Foundation (NRF) of South Africa has selected the African Institute for Capacity Development (AICAD) as a regional node for the African Open Science Platform (AOSP) taking charge of the East African region node. AICAD is a regional organization charged with linking university generated technologies to the communities to fight poverty with headquarters at Jomo Kenyata University of Agriculture and Technology. AICAD has country offices located at Makerere University in Uganda, Sokoine University of Agriculture in Tanzania and Egerton University in Kenya.
The other two award winners in Africa include; the Egyptian National Authority for Remote Sensing and Space Sciences (NARSS) for the Northern African Node based in Egypt and the UbuntuNet Alliance for the Southern Africa Node based in Malawi. The appointment will be for a five-year term, starting in June 2023, with additional regional nodes to be appointed to cover all regions of the continent.
Hosted by the National Research Foundation (NRF) since 2020, the AOSP aims to position African scientists at the cutting edge of data intensive science by stimulating interactivity and creating opportunity through the development of efficiencies of scale, building critical mass through shared capacities, and amplifying impact through a commonality of purpose and voice. This prominent initiative is supported by the South African Department of Science and Innovation, the International Science Council, CODATA, the Academy of Science of South Africa, and other prominent regional networks. The AOSP will also leverage international networks and developments, and the momentum towards operationalization of the international framework for open science.
The Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe congratulates AICAD on being appointed to coordinate this noble initiative in East Africa. Makerere University welcomes every initiative and programme that harnesses the power of research to transform lives and societies. AICAD through this Africa Open Science Platform (AOSP) will enhance the ongoing efforts of ensuring that research, science and data contributes to reduction of poverty in the African region.
“The Makerere University Strategic Plan stipulates the re-positioning of Makerere University into a research led university. This is premised on the fact that no country can develop without research. The main goal of AICAD is fighting poverty using university generated innovations. I am happy to note that the National Research Foundation (NRF) of South Africa has appointed AICAD as a regional node for the African Open Science Platform (AOSP) taking charge of the East African region node. With this appointment, Makerere University is ready to work with AICAD to coordinate all member universities and other research data generating agencies to pursue the ideas of open science. The idea of open science and data sharing is key in the innovation process. When data is shared, solutions are quickly realized. I understand this is how the COVID-19 vaccine was quickly produced. Different research groups were able to share their data for a common cause,” remarked Prof. Nawangwe.
The role of the African Open Science Platform (AOSP) regional nodes will be to coordinate, create linkages, support, and promote efforts aligned with implementation of Open Science programmes at a regional level, strengthen knowledge networks and infrastructure access, and enhance cooperation between regions and globally in support of the AOSP’s vision. Among others, regional nodes will be expected to lead on programme delivery and implementation, coordination, capacity building, societal engagement in dialogue, and policy support and promotion of the UNESCO Open Science Recommendations at national and regional levels.
The incoming Director of the AOSP, Dr. Tshiamo Motsegwa, had this to say: “For the Global South, and the African continent specifically, the efficiency and productivity gains from Open Science present a compelling case for government research funding in the context of limited resources and competing priorities for the development of a facilitative and truly African-wide Open Science Diplomacy platform for enhancing continental coordination, collaboration and making global linkages – this to develop an African science system fit for purpose”.
About AICAD
AICAD Uganda Country office was established in 2000 located at Makerere University and headed by a Country Director. AICAD’s headquarters are located in Nairobi, Kenya. This office is responsible for coordinating the institute’s programs and activities dealing with poverty reduction in Uganda through human capacity development by linking knowledge to application. Initially, AICAD was funded through JICA but since 2012, the Institute’s programs are funded by the three governments of Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania. AICAD’s primary aim is poverty alleviation, by facilitating the local people to solve their problems. To do this, AICAD works with public Universities and other institutions to filter and apply those aspects of research that are of practical significance to targeted users. These include public universities such as Makerere, Kyambogo, Mbarara, Gulu, Busitema, Kabale, Muni and KIU. As part of its human capacity development, AICAD’s network has played useful roles in supporting young institutions, individual researchers (through graduate student’s research) and communities.
Follow this story on https://www.nrf.ac.za/the-african-open-science-platform-appoints-three-regional-nodes/
Summary of Matters Arising from the Question and Answer Session
Concept of Open Science
Public Higher Education Institutions such as Makerere and agencies such as the National Agricultural Research Organisation are publicly funded by taxpayers. As such they have a duty to account for the funding they receive to carry out research by sharing their findings. Open Science creates a space where the sharing of these findings can happen beyond forums where scientists and researchers only talk to each other. These findings are availed in simplified formats that can be accessed by innovators and entrepreneurs who may not have the capacity to undertake expensive research, to create goods and services for the benefit of the country.
The AOSP will enable data generated in Uganda as well as the Eastern Africa to be freely shared with the public for their use as well as journalists for further dissemination. The founding of AICAD in 1993 implicitly complied with the principles of open science. AICAD was founded in 1993 principally to reduce poverty through scientific research and sharing this knowledge with the community. Joint sharing of knowledge at international level in line with open science is one of the factors that led to the rapid development of the COVID-19 vaccine as well as curbing outbreaks of diseases such as ebola, nodding disease.
Makerere has actively participated in some of these initiatives and will strive to work on making others such the Parish Development Model (PDM) work for Uganda’s poverty alleviation agenda through the PDM lab. Additional undertakings in line with open science have seen Makerere develop and disseminate new crop varieties to farmers to improve productivity.
Implementation of the AOSP
AICAD’s selection to host the Eastern Africa node was boosted by its proficiency in supporting a network of universities and institutions to reach communities with knowledge and technologies that are geared towards poverty reduction. AOSP will enable AICAD to scale up and improve these efforts. Makerere is making efforts to commercialise its innovations and where necessary, forging partnerships with various entities to undertake manufacturing, as is the case with Alfasan Uganda Limited for production of the anti-tick vaccine. Other initiatives include the partnership with UNDP Uganda to set up the Makerere Innovations Hub.
Funding
The NRF will initially fund the AOSP node for Eastern Africa. In order to ensure its future sustainability, the platform will have the capacity to raise funds from other sources .
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Simplicity, Service & Scholarship: Hallmarks of Professor Livingstone Luboobi’s Legacy
Published
9 hours agoon
July 18, 2025By
Eve Nakyanzi
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
General
Public University Legal and Accounting Officers Trained on Governance and Compliance
Published
2 days agoon
July 17, 2025By
Eve Nakyanzi
Legal and accounting officers from public universities across Uganda have convened, for a high-level training workshop organized by Makerere University. The three-day training, taking place from July 16th to 18th, 2025, is aimed at strengthening legal frameworks, improving institutional governance, and ensuring compliance with public finance and procurement laws within higher education institutions.
Ms. Lorna Magara, Chairperson of the Makerere University Council and Guest of Honour at the opening session, commended the initiative as timely and necessary. She addressed the growing backlog of court cases affecting Makerere and other public universities and outlined measures already taken to mitigate legal risks. These include the establishment of a Legal Rules and Privileges Committee and the Directorate of Legal Affairs, part of a broader strategy to improve legal compliance and foster good governance.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Winston Tumps – Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration), described the training as both strategic and practical. “It is imperative that we learn from each other, especially in how we handle employee litigation and institutional legal risks,” he remarked. He added that the program is designed to promote experience-sharing across universities and enhance collective institutional growth.

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.
General
Celebrating the Life of Prof. Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi
Published
2 days agoon
July 17, 2025By
Mak Editor
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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