General
DRGT engages management and staff on harmonized reporting of research and innovations
By Ritah Namisango
The Makerere University Strategic plan stipulates the institution’s goal to transform into a research led University. This pronouncement calls upon university leaders and staff at the different levels to prioritise research and graduate training. It also presents the Directorate of Research and Graduate Training (DRGT) with a golden opportunity to re-align its functions for improved service delivery.
According to the Director Prof. Edward Bbaale, the commitment by DRGT to conform to the University’s strategic direction has led to systematic reviews of its processes, tools and activities.
“We have revised the Graduate Students’ Manual and the Postdoctoral policy. We are also reviewing the Makerere University research agenda,” said Prof. Bbaale during a breakfast meeting held on Tuesday 5 th December 2023 at Imperial Royale Hotel. The meeting was attended by Members of the University Management, College Principals, Deputy Principals, Principal Communication Officers, staff from Mak Public Relations Office, Directorate for ICT Support (DICTS), Makerere University Business School, and DRGT.
During the meeting, Prof. Bbaale informed the participants that DRGT is committed to bringing all stakeholders on board to ensure that an environment that is conducive for research to thrive is created.
“We would like to work with you to enhance the reporting and documentation of research and graduate training. DRGT re-affirms its readiness to undertake the coordination role. We are here to discuss and understand the reporting structure of DRGT so that together, we contribute to the harmonization of research and graduate training processes/systems,” he said.
Prof. Bbaale highlighted that graduate training is a major component of a research driven university. He pointed out that DRGT would work with Management, staff and other stakeholders to prioritise graduate training; establish research entities to ensure uptake of research; promote, package and market research and innovations; and harness internationalization and partnerships to support research.
He revealed that the harmonization of the reporting structure for research and graduate training was aimed at enabling the timely tracking of progress in research and outputs as well as sharing with the government, funding agencies, research partners and stakeholders in general, the impact of Makerere University’s research in the transformation of communities.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, the Principal of the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga commended DRGT for convening key stakeholders at the University to discuss a common reporting structure.
Emphasizing the impact of research, the Vice Chancellor underscored DRGT’s coordination role in working with internal and external partners to come up with innovative ways to market and disseminate research to the communities. “Research from Makerere University should impact communities and contribute to societal transformation,” stated the Vice Chancellor.
In the same vein, Prof. Nabanoga expressed the readiness of the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences as an intensive research unit, to work with DRGT to promote research and graduate training. “Without the coordination role of the Directorate of Research and Graduate Training, research will not have impact,” she said.
Digitizing research activities:
Prof. Bbaale emphasized the need for digitization and online presence of research, innovations and graduate training milestones. He mentioned that DRGT embarked on digitizing some of its activities, and equally called upon the Directorate for ICT Support (DICTS) to consolidate digitization efforts.
Highlights of the Research Information Management System:
The Director of DICTS, Mr. Samuel Mugabi highlighted that Makerere University’s Research Information Management System (RIMS) is an online platform that would feed into other systems. “This digital platform focuses on system integration and providing a solution to the reporting challenges.” He subsequently invited Mr. Juma Katongole, the Principal Systems Administrator at DICTS to make a presentation showcasing the major features of RIMS to the audience.
Plenary discussion:
In line with the programme, the Deputy Director (Administration and Graduate Training) and meeting Moderator, Associate Prof. Julius Kikooma, invited the participants to provide input into the reporting structure for research, graduate training processes and the template for DRGT Annual Report.
From the deliberations, participants applauded DRGT on the planned and deliberate strategies targeted at improving the documentation and reporting of research processes, outputs and innovations as well as graduate training. They particularly credited the Directorate for re-organizing of the Graduate Students’ Handbook, which is an important tool of reference for both staff and graduate students.
The participants implored the Directorate of Research and Graduate Training to consider the following:
- Prioritizing graduate training and its support systems/mechanisms: The University leadership and the respective Colleges should come up with strategies to strengthen graduate training.
- Tracking the time graduate students spend on the programme: It is important to monitor the time when each graduate student enrolls and when he/she completes the programme. This will provide key insights on the rates as well as the factors that affect completion on a case by case basis.
- Graduate students’ supervision: Rallying University leaders at different levels to make students supervision attractive through motivation mechanisms, incentives, including the consideration of the number of graduate students, a member of staff is supervising significantly contributing to promotion criteria and/or academic growth.
- Orientation of PhD Students: There is need for DRGT to work with Colleges to organize scheduled orientations for PhD students because they enroll at different times within the academic year. However, the Directorate should continue undertaking the orientation for the Masters students at the centre because they enroll at the same time.
- Reporting on Publications: This should be categorized as follows: Staff publications, Staff and Students publications, and Student publications.
- The Research Reporting Template should provide the following: preliminary information, executive summary, graduate training component and the research component.
- The Research component will highlight research outputs (publications, books, book chapters, patents, policy briefs), Conference papers, posters and presentations, Innovations and Other scientific discoveries, research grants, collaborations and partnerships, as well as Impact and Outreach.
- Impact and Outreach component will highlight community engagement activities such as; public lectures and talks, exhibitions, media coverage, policy influence, dissemination days among others.
- The need for the reporting processes to capture graduate students who are on mobility programmes and their progress.
Closing:
The Director, Prof. Bbaale thanked members for their valuable input into the research reporting processes. He reiterated the Directorate’s readiness to continue working closely with all stakeholders in the execution of its mandate.
On Wednesday 16th July 2025, Makerere University lost one of its most cherished sons, Professor Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi. Described as a mathematician, academic leader, and humble servant, Professor Luboobi devoted more than five decades to the university, rising through the ranks to become Vice Chancellor, and leaving a legacy defined by simplicity, service, and scholarship.
Born to Lameka Serwadda and Sanyu Serwadda on 25th December 1944 in Mitondo, Kalisizo, Kyotera District, Professor Luboobi’s academic career begun as a third-year student at Makerere and continued with unwavering loyalty until his passing. His life’s work reflected not only a commitment to mathematics but also nurturing generations of scholars and leaders across Uganda and beyond.
A funeral service was held in his honour at St. Francis Chapel, Makerere University on 18th July 2025. It was a moment of solemn remembrance and heartfelt tribute. Rev. Canon Dr. John Senyonyi delivered the sermon titled “Only God Knows,” reminding mourners of the mystery and grace of life’s journey. Rev. Canon Geoffrey Byarugaba represented the Kampala Diocese at the service, while former St. Francis Chaplain, Rev. Dr. Canon Johnson Ebong thanked Professor Luboobi for spearheading the Chapel’s expansion. Friends, colleagues, and family members filled the chapel, joined in mourning but also in gratitude for a life that had deeply touched theirs.
Mrs. Lorna Magara, Chairperson of the University Council, spoke movingly about Professor Luboobi’s faithfulness, likening his life to the biblical call in Mark 10:43, “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.”
In his condolence message, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Barnabas Nawangwe, hailed Professor Luboobi as a visionary leader whose legacy is deeply woven into Makerere’s identity as a research-led institution. He credited Professor Luboobi with laying the groundwork for a culture of inquiry—championing graduate programmes, encouraging doctoral training, and fostering international collaborations that strengthened the university’s research profile. “He believed in building systems, not just structures,” noting that many of Makerere’s current research policies stem from his leadership. Even in retirement, Professor Luboobi remained a source of wisdom and guidance, quietly shaping the future of the university he so deeply loved.
Speaker after speaker painted a portrait of a man who led not by pomp, but by quiet strength and deep conviction. The Principal, Professor Winston Tumps Ireeta, speaking on behalf of the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), described Professor Luboobi as a foundational figure whose influence is deeply etched in the structures and spirit of the college. He spoke with emotion about Luboobi’s unwavering commitment to academic integrity and his belief in the power of mentorship.
“He was not just a mathematician,” Professor Ireeta said, “he was a visionary who understood the soul of the university. Even in retirement, he remained an advisor, a guide, and a quiet force of wisdom.” He concluded by saying that the college would continue to draw from his example as it navigates the future of science and innovation in Uganda.
Professor Luboobi’s illustrious career at Makerere University included serving as Head, Department of Mathematics from 1990 to 1991. The current Head of Department, Dr. Ismail Mirumbe remembered him as a pillar in the teaching and development of mathematics in Uganda
Professor John Mango, who served as Head, Department of Mathematics during Professor Luboobi’s term as Vice Chancellor from 2004 to 2009 described him as a towering figure of integrity and principle, someone who not only upheld the highest standards of academic conduct but insisted that others around him do the same. “He was a pillar in the department,” Prof. Mango remarked, “and his moral compass was unwavering.”
He recalled instances where Professor Luboobi made firm decisions, including terminating contracts when integrity was compromised, setting a tone that shaped the department’s reputation for honesty and excellence. Even as Vice Chancellor, he remained deeply involved in the department’s affairs, teaching, supervising students, all the while handling top administrative duties punctually. Prof. Mango spoke with great admiration of a man who led by example, mentored many, and whose contributions to mathematics education, research, and policy-making continue to shape the future of the discipline in Uganda and beyond.
According to an article from 1990 written by Dr. Vincent Ssembatya and Andrew Vince at the University of Florida, the Uganda Mathematical Society (UMS), which was formally established on 25th November, 1972 has since inception enjoyed major support from Makerere University and Kyambogo University in terms of infrastructure and leadership. Professor Paul Mugambi, who was also present at Professor Luboobi’s funeral service was elected first president of the UMS. Dr. Saul Nsubuga from the Department of Mathematics represented UMS at the service, honouring Professor Luboobi’s pioneering role in the discipline.
The service also featured tributes from close friends and family. Loved ones shared stories of a man who remained grounded no matter how high he rose, a man who valued relationships and walked closely with his faith. His children and grandchildren remembered him as a father who was ever-present, a listener, and a source of steady guidance.
Professor Daniel Kibuule, son of the late Professor Luboobi and Dean, Faculty of Health Sciences at Busitema University, delivered a deeply personal tribute that painted a full portrait of his father’s life, values, and final days. He expressed gratitude to the University leadership, family, friends, and medical professionals who stood with them during a challenging period. He particularly thanked his siblings, Dr. David Kimera and Dr. Irene Nakiyimba for their unwavering role in caring for Professor Luboobi through illness.
He spoke of a man who, despite great academic accolades, remained deeply humble and committed to discipline, simplicity, and faith. From instilling punctuality and responsibility to ensuring his children charted their own paths, none bearing his surname “Luboobi”, Prof. Luboobi was intentional in every lesson he passed on. Kibuule recalled his father’s insistence on being at home even in his final moments, his strong connection to Christ, and his quiet strength despite his failing health.
Former students and mentees echoed the same sentiments, of a teacher who was generous with his time and invested deeply in others’ growth. The community that gathered was not only there to grieve but to celebrate the quiet legacy of a man whose example continues to live on.
Among the mourners were public figures and leaders, including Hon. Abed Bwanika, Member of Parliament for Kimanya-Kabonera, Hon. Nyombi Thembo, the Executive Director Uganda Communications Commission, and Hon. Dr. Ham-Mukasa Mulira, former Minister of ICT, among others.
In his passing, Makerere University has lost a pillar, but his life reminds us that greatness lies in consistency, in humility, and in service to others. Professor Luboobi’s memory will continue to live on in the minds he shaped, the systems he built, and the values he embodied. He ran his race with grace.
The Writer is a Volunteer in the Public Relations Office, Makerere University
Please click the embedded video below to view the service livestream
Legal and accounting officers from public universities across Uganda have convened, for a high-level training workshop organized by Makerere University. The three-day training, taking place from July 16th to 18th, 2025, is aimed at strengthening legal frameworks, improving institutional governance, and ensuring compliance with public finance and procurement laws within higher education institutions.
Ms. Lorna Magara, Chairperson of the Makerere University Council and Guest of Honour at the opening session, commended the initiative as timely and necessary. She addressed the growing backlog of court cases affecting Makerere and other public universities and outlined measures already taken to mitigate legal risks. These include the establishment of a Legal Rules and Privileges Committee and the Directorate of Legal Affairs, part of a broader strategy to improve legal compliance and foster good governance.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Winston Tumps – Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration), described the training as both strategic and practical. “It is imperative that we learn from each other, especially in how we handle employee litigation and institutional legal risks,” he remarked. He added that the program is designed to promote experience-sharing across universities and enhance collective institutional growth.
In his address, Mr. Yusuf Kiranda, University Secretary at Makerere University, emphasized the urgent need for robust legal oversight and more effective case management mechanisms within public universities.
The training featured a keynote address by the Attorney General of Uganda, Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka, who provided critical insights into legal expectations for public institutions. He warned that failure to heed legal advice could result in personal liability for accounting officers, citing a precedent involving the Uganda Cancer Institute. “Universities must consult the Attorney General’s chambers before entering into major contractual obligations,” he advised, urging legal officers to document decisions meticulously as proper record-keeping forms the first line of defense in legal disputes.
Hon. Kiwanuka further discussed the government’s ongoing efforts to recentralize legal services to ensure alignment with the Attorney General’s office. He cautioned in-house counsel against becoming overly entangled in decision-making processes, stressing the need for objectivity. Other key issues he addressed included contract approvals, misuse of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), and lapses in procurement processes, particularly at the close of financial years.
Participants also benefited from insights by Hon. Justice Musa Ssekaana of the Court of Appeal, who offered an in-depth analysis of judicial review and its significance in promoting lawful, transparent university governance. He called on university legal officers to act with clarity, timeliness, and accountability.
Lady Justice Joyce Kavuma, Judge of the High Court, delivered a comprehensive presentation on dispute and claim management involving public universities. She addressed emerging trends in civil litigation, emphasizing the importance of due process, transparency, and clear communication in resolving employment, student, and contractual disputes. Drawing on real case examples, she urged institutions to strengthen internal systems, embrace participatory governance, and adopt regional best practices to minimize litigation and protect institutional reputation.
The training reflects a shared commitment among public universities to build a more accountable, legally sound, and strategically aligned higher education system in Uganda. Through peer learning and collaboration, participating institutions aim to reduce litigation, enhance institutional autonomy, and uphold the rule of law.
Participating universities include Makerere University, Kyambogo University, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Busitema University, Mountains of the Moon University, and Lira University.
The training concludes on July 18th 2025, with sessions focusing on employment dispute management in public universities and the implications of recent PPDA Appeals Tribunal decisions on procurement and disposal practices within public entities.
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