General
Mak Council Launches Grants Management System, Underscores Support Role
The Makerere University Grants Management System (MakGMS) was on Tuesday 12th March 2024 officially launched by the University Council at a ceremony presided over by the Chairperson, Finance, Planning, Administration and Investment Committee (FPAIC), Mr. Bruce Kabaasa. The hybrid ceremony held in the School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering Conference Hall was graced by Members of Management led by the Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, the Leadership and Staff of the Grants Administration and Management Support Unit (GAMSU) as well as Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF) and project Principal Investigators.
In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor who credited Chairperson FPAIC with not only conceiving the idea but also following up on the development of MakGMS concluded that there was no one better placed to launch the same. Mr. Kabaasa in turn thanked former members of FPAIC such as Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta for going the extra mile in contributing to the formulation of the supporting regulation, the Makerere University Grants and Administration Management Policy. In the same breath, he thanked the Head GAMSU, Prof. Sylvia Antonia Nakimera Nannyonga-Tamusuza for working hard and swiftly to ensure that the MakGMS is developed and launched.
Mr. Kabaasa reassured his audience that the essence of the policy and system is not to control, but rather provide an institutionalised support mechanism for those winning grants to execute them efficiently. Additionally, he said MakGMS is meant to “support those who don’t have the grants to understand where the grants are, and to perform mentoring that those of you who are successful are meant to perform with those who are emerging because academia is a mentoring field.”
Still on academia, the Chairperson FPAIC noted that “we live in a University where statements like inter, intra and multidisciplinary are the mantras of academic discourse.” He added that these mantras are not possible if people are not relating, hence underscoring another function of the MakGMS – to provide a dashboard where at a glance, it will be easy and possible to see the research being undertaken at institutional level and how researchers can augment each other’s work.
Earlier, Prof. Nawangwe in his remarks had noted that as Makerere University aims to shift from a research-intensive to a research-led paradigm, it was important to organize and automate the various systems so as to ensure that all staff and students contribute to the university’s strategic direction. Citing China’s continued rise in global influence as a result of a robust research and innovations output, the Vice Chancellor reiterated that unless systems such as MakGMS were put in place, it was going to be hard to monitor and evaluate how Makerere’s research contributes to national and continental growth aspirations.
“MakGMS is one way to streamline what we are doing so that we can do more research, attract more grants, get more people involved and know who is doing what and how it is useful for our country and continent” he stated.
Prof. Nawangwe therefore congratulated the Head GAMSU and her team for bringing the much-needed energy that has propelled the MakGMS to launch stage. He lauded the GAMSU Steering Committee headed by the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration), Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, acknowledging that with their combined strength, the system could not fail. In the same breath, he commended the Directorate for ICT Support (DICTS) headed by Mr. Samuel Mugabi for doing an excellent job in as far as the in-house development of systems is concerned.
Acknowledging that GAMSU is a key unit of the university that cannot be taken for granted in terms of generating data for off-budget reporting, Prof. Henry Alinaitwe introduced members of the Steering Committee namely; the University Secretary-Mr. Yusuf Kiranda, Dr. Sabrina Kitaka, Dr. Charles Masembe, Dr. Agnes Rwashana Semwanga, Dr. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala, Dr. Godfrey Akileng, Dr. Robert Wamala, Mr. Gyaviira Lubowa and current Head GAMSU-Prof. Sylvia Antonia Nakimera Nannyonga-Tamusuza. He equally acknowledged the contribution of former Heads of GAMSU, Prof. Grace Bantebya and Prof. William Bazeyo, whose efforts, he said, laid the foundation for developments such as MakGMS.
“Makerere is aspiring to be a research-led University and GAMSU is at the centre of that aspiration. This is where we consolidate all the data regarding grants, support research or grant writing, and report about grants in terms of topics, amounts of money received and their distributions per quarter or annum” Prof. Alinaitwe explained.
In his capacity as the University Accounting Officer, Mr. Yusuf Kiranda used the launch as an opportunity to remind the audience that all grants received by the University are subject to the supreme law in the administration of public funds i.e. the Public Finance Management Act, as well as guidelines of the Treasury Instructions 2017. Nevertheless, he noted that Section 44 of the Act provides a waiver for public entities such as Makerere to maintain the funds in-house upon obtaining exemption from the Minister responsible for Finance. He concluded by observing that whereas it had hitherto been nearly impossible to obtain the aforementioned waiver, “with the launch of this system (MakGMS), I believe that problem is resolved.”
The woman of the moment Prof. Nannyonga-Tamusuza couldn’t help but thank the Vice Chancellor for entrusting her with the huge responsibility of heading GAMSU, noting that there was no better way to commemorate her first year in office than the launch of MakGMS. She equally acknowledged the support rendered by the University Secretary and the entire Management to GAMSU during the development of the system. MakGMS was developed in-house by DICTS, with Mr. Denis Wamala as lead developer seconded by the Director Mr. Samuel Mugabi.
Speaking broadly about the research infrastructure at Makerere, Mr. Mugabi described ICT as “a critical enabler of the research ecosystem”, and that it is important that the University establishes state-of-the-art digital research infrastructure. He added that the approach taken by Makerere in this regard is to gradually shift from procuring expensive proprietary systems to building in-house capacity to develop systems that can solve institutional and national problems.
“We are now an integrated process-driven University but we need to become a data-driven institution and that is where the big data analytics comes in. And we need to adopt emerging technologies, which we are starting to do” Mr. Mugabi shared.
Speaking more about the system, Prof. Nannyonga-Tamusuza noted that MakGMS will require authentication using the Makerere University email credentials and all who are going to access the system will be required to sign oaths of confidentiality so as to build trust among system users. MakGMS will also support archiving of supporting documents and research data, and will be able to automatically issue certificates to users for grants received. The system will also integrate automatic communication between GAMSU and Principal Investigators so as to notify researchers on the progress of grant applications. SMS notifications to users will be incorporated in the future.
Supplementing Prof. Nannyonga-Tamusuza’s submission, the Lead Developer, Mr. Denis Wamala shared that MakGMS has been built on robust, scalable infrastructure that is primarily open source. The merits of this is that the system will be easy to integrate with other existing Information Systems, which will greatly enhance data sharing.
Prof. Nannyonga-Tamusuza concluded by reassuring all Principal Investigators that the MakGMS is here to support their work, and that GAMSU remains committed to providing training on grant writing in partnership with the Directorate of Research and Graduate Training (DRGT) as well as providing all supporting documents required during application processes. She added that MakGMS will greatly enhance monitoring and evaluation of grants performance so as to offer insights on how to improve or mitigate any risks that could arise.
Proceedings of the launch were moderated by the Principal Public Relations Officer, Ms. Ritah Namisango and committed to God Almighty through a prayer led by the GAMSU Accountant, Ms. Christine Ninsiima.
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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