General
MU-JHU Employment Opportunity: Five (5) Positions
Published
12 months agoon
By
Mak Editor
MU-JHU RESEARCH COLLABORATION (MU-JHU CARE LTD), a Kampala based equal opportunities HIV/AIDS, TB and related clinical and implementation science research Organization with more than 400 employees is seeking interested, committed and reliable professionals with the described qualification to apply for the full-time position below at MU-JHU.
MU-JHU anticipates to implement Global Fund HIV/TB activities through a project targeting Adolescent Girls and Young Women (AGYW) in the districts of Pader, Kitgum and Dokolo, as a sub-recipient of the Global Fund grant (UGA-C-TASO) under The AIDS Support Organisation (TASO) as the prime recipient. MU-JHU therefore seeks suitable candidates to fill the following positions in the project tenable in the said districts of implementation, to be contracted on an annual basis, subject to availability of funds. The successful candidates will be based in the districts mentioned above.
- Position: Project Coordinator
- Duty Station: (Pader District)
- Contract duration: 1 year (renewable)
Description and purpose:
The Project Coordinator will provide technical leadership to the project staff implementing activities in areas of operation and ensure timely reporting and accountability for all project activities in all districts of implementation.
Required qualifications and profile:
The applicant must hold a bachelor’s degree in a health-related field, Social Sciences, Social works and Social Administration and any other related field. A Post Graduate qualification in Public Health, Project Planning and Management or related fields is an added advantage. The suitable candidate should have at least 5 years of working experience in SRHR, HIV and TB community work. Additional experience in health systems strengthening and programming in donor-funded projects, particularly in rural settings in a similar project environment, is highly preferred. The person should have high integrity and ethical standards, ooutstanding communication, presentation, and facilitation skills, advanced analytical and report writing capabilities, ccollaborative mindset with a positive attitude towards teamwork, aability to handle multiple tasks, work under pressure, and meet tight deadlines and sstrong problem-solving skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information and take initiative. Valid permit to drive and ride a motorcycle will be an added advantage.
The holder of this position will work under the direct supervision of the Director Strategic Planning & Partnerships and will be responsible for the following duties and responsibilities:
Project management and Co-ordination
- Provide oversight and leadership of the project to ensure strategic alignment, effective management, and successful achievement of project objectives.
- Planning project implementation including preparation of project workplans and budgets.
- Oversee and control project budget execution as per budget allocations.
- Actively support project teams to manage competing work priorities.
- Coordinating project staff, cluster/district and other key partners to achieve project goals.
- Supervise staff within jurisdiction, while mentoring them to deliver project results and
deliverables. - Provide technical support and monitor project implementation to ensure compliance with donor requirements, approved budget and work Plans.
- Ensure proper utilization and accountability to project resources.
- Build sound and mutually respectable relations with District leaders, Communities and other project stakeholders.
- Support effective monitoring of donor grants allocated to project, partners, stakeholders, ensuring appropriate reporting and documentation is in place.
- Develop impactful stories demonstrating the project’s accomplishments and results.
- Develop and enforce protocols for storage and use of information.
- Organize and provide support for project meetings and events.
- Ensuring proper record keeping and organisation of project files, registers and logs.
- Actively participate in resource mobilization and other strategically beneficial activities resulting from or connected to your technical position on this project.
Monitoring and Evaluation:
- Working closely with the M&E Coordinator to ensure proper documentation of project data in compliance with MoH requirements and donor reporting.
- Prepare and ensure timely submission of activity progress reports on a weekly, monthly and quarterly basis and whenever required by the project management team.
- Prepare timely periodic progress reports as determined by the Director or SMT for submission to donors and MU-JHU board.
- Perform any other duties and responsibilities that may be assigned by the immediate
supervisor.
- Position: Monitoring and Evaluation Coordinator
- Duty Station: (Pader District)
- Contract duration: 1 year (renewable)
Description and purpose:
The M&E coordinator will provide overall M&E technical leadership and oversight to ensure that a robust and functional M&E system is in place; and is utilized to support the implementation of this project.
Required qualifications and profile:
- Bachelor’s degree in Statistics, Population and demography, Quantitative Economics or a related field. A Post Graduate qualification in Monitoring and Evaluation is an added advantage. At least five years’ experience in leading M&E work in health or livelihood donor-funded projects, preferably in a similar project environment. Knowledge of HIV/TB, AGYW programming, and Health Systems Strengthening frameworks is an added advantage. Data centred mindset and result oriented personality is highly preferred. Relevant knowledge in databases and statistical software (such as STATA, R) and experience with IT tools for M&E is highly desirable. Relevant knowledge of data quality control and assurance processes is required. Valid permit to drive and ride a motorcycle will be an added advantage. The person should have Excellent computer skills and proficiency in Microsoft office applications including Office, Excel and PowerPoint. Knowledge and skills in data visualization and presentation is an added advantage. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present information clearly, coherently and correctly, and facilitate engaging discussions and ability to prioritize workload and meet deadlines
The holder of this position will work under the direct supervision of the Project Coordinator and will be responsible for the following duties and responsibilities:
- Develop M&E tools, frameworks, and methodologies to measure project progress and output.
- Regularly review and monitor the implementation of M&E systems, guidelines, and protocols to ensure effective tracking and measurement of project performance.
- Oversee and ensure the execution of M&E activities including data qualities assurance exercises and support supervisions for the data functions in all 3 districts.
- Participate in the development, revision and update of weekly, monthly, quarterly work plans that address project objectives and facilitate timely implementation of project activities.
- Ensure data quality, utilization, and dissemination to inform project implementation and decision-making.
- Lead/be a key contributor in the development and submission of technical reports according to the predetermined schedule by the donors and generate additional reports as required to facilitate informed decision-making.
- Coordinate all data officers in the project districts to adhere to operational reporting guidelines and achieve timely data entry and reporting according to established schedules.
- Facilitate data-driven decision-making for the project and its stakeholders, identify and address areas for improvement, ensuring proactive adjustments that maximize project performance and achieve project goals.
- Provide technical guidance and support to project staff to ensure data-driven programming and enhance M&E capacity including trainings and mentorship of data collection teams.
- Work with project coordinator to track implementation of project activities according the workplans.
- Provide timely and accurate responses to data requests and queries from donors, partners, and MUJHU management.
- Actively participate in resource mobilization and other strategically beneficial activities resulting from or connected to your technical position on this project.
- Perform any other duties and responsibilities assigned by project management to ensure smooth project implementation.
- Position: Project Officer (3 positions)
- Duty Station: (Pader, Kitgum, Dokolo districts)
- Contract duration: 1 year (renewable)
Description and purpose:
The Project Officer will be responsible for planning, coordination and implementation of UGA-C-TASO project activities within the district and be the technical lead in the supported district.
Required qualifications and profile:
Bachelor’s Degree in either Public health, Social Sciences, Social work and Social Administration, Community Psychology, Adult and Community education and other humanities or health related discipline. Clinical officers with this experience may also apply. At least three years’ work experience implementing AGYW or DREAMS Initiative, preferably in a similar project environment. Valid permit to ride a motorcycle is essential.
The holder of this position will work under the direct supervision of the Project Coordinator and will be responsible for the following duties and responsibilities:
- Take lead in planning, coordination and implementation of activities required under this project, including modalities of community and district owned implementation.
- Provide technical assistance to district, partner and community stakeholders during implementation of this project through planning, mobilizing and on-site mentorship activities based on national guidelines, protocols and the project’s implementation guidelines.
- Work closely with the project M&E Officer and Project Coordinator to ensure regular updates of the project activity tracker, tools, systems and databases.
- Ensure timely reporting and documentation of results from the project implementation in collaboration with M&E team, ensuring accuracy of data reported and supported narratives and evidence monthly and quarterly reporting cycles.
- Foster smooth and effective collaboration with partners at district and sub-county level implementing activities funded by this project.
- Strengthen referral and linkages between community service delivery points and health facilities for AGYW and their partners for all services not directly provided by this project.
- Support establishment of District Technical Working Groups and Community Quality
Improvement teams to support implementation of AGYW risk reduction plans in identified communities. - Strengthen partner coordination in the districts through participating in meetings, joint field support supervision and activity implementation.
- Develop up-front activity trip plans, budgets, procurements and implementation plans on weekly, monthly and quarterly basis.
- Represent the project in Districts meetings including extended DHT meetings,
comprehensive partners’ meetings when invited and district technical working
group activities where MU-JHU is required to participate.
- Position: Data Officer (3 positions)
- Duty Station: (Pader, Kitgum, Dokolo districts)
- Contract duration: 1 year (renewable)
Description and purpose:
To plan and monitor the implementation of UGA-C-TASO project activities in the district and conduct data entry, cleaning, and documentation of implemented activities and outputs using appropriate data tools and ensure timely availability of quality data for reporting.
Required qualifications and profile:
Bachelor’s degree in Statistics, Population and demography, Quantitative Economics or a related data science field. At least two years’ experience in M&E work in health or livelihood donor-funded projects, preferably in a similar project environment. Valid permit to ride a motorcycle is essential.
The holder of this position will work under the direct supervision of the Monitoring & Evaluation Coordinator and will be responsible for the following duties and responsibilities:
- Maintain firm and updated knowledge of all data tools, systems and requirements under the project.
- Conduct timely and accurate data entry for implemented activities.
- Maintain up-to-date project databases of all activities implemented and routinely share with the M&E Coordinator all entered data sets for merging and analysis.
- Ensure availability of updated data capture and reporting tools at the community for effective tracking of services provided to AGYW/ABYM and other targeted populations.
- Support program teams to analyse and interpret data.
- Participate in the development of weekly, monthly, quarterly work plans.
- Monitor and track the implementation of project activities and support Project Officer to develop catch-up plans in case of unmet targets.
- Support the Project Officer in planning, mobilization and implementation of project activities and tracking achievements of targets.
- Monitor the cluster PMP and give progress updates on a weekly, monthly, and quarterly basis.
- Plan, organize and conduct periodic performance review meetings for sharing progress with stakeholders.
- Conduct data validation, to ensure correct and consistent data is reported in periodic reports.
- Ensure that all the planned and approved activities are implemented within the agreed-upon time frame.
- Support district-based stakeholders, including statistician, facility and partner data staff to accurately and timely capture, enter, submit and report on respective data from project activities.
- Position: Communications Officer
- Duty Station: MU-JHU Care Ltd
- Contract duration: 1 year (renewable)
Description and purpose:
To support the Communications Specialist in content development, digital marketing, social media management and event management support.
Required qualifications and profile:
Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications, Marketing, Branding, Journalism, or Public Relations. At least 2 years relevant experience preferably in a similar position in an NGO or media house. Understand research activities and achievements to communicate effectively. Copy writing and copy-editing skills. Knowledge of photography concepts like exposure, composition, focus and lighting. Familiarity with different types of cameras (Canon/ Nikon DSLRs and smartphones) and accessories (lenses, tripods, flashes). Basic knowledge of photo editing software (e.g., Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom) to enhance and retouch images is helpful. This includes adjusting exposure, color balance, and cropping. Ability to post content and gather analytics on MU-JHU social media pages on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook. Have strong organizational skills to manage event logistics and coordinate speakers and presenters. Possess excellent interpersonal skills to provide on-site support and address event issues.
The holder of this position will work under the direct supervision of the Communications Specialist with functional responsibilities to the Director Strategic Planning & Partnerships and will be responsible for the following duties and responsibilities:
Content Development:
- Produce Various Types of Content: The officer must create articles, social media posts, and presentations that effectively communicate the site’s research activities and achievements. This requires a deep understanding of the subject matter and the ability to tailor content for different audiences and platforms.
- Editing and Proofreading: Ensuring accuracy, consistency, and adherence to brand guidelines is crucial. The officer must have strong attention to detail and a keen eye for errors.
- Photography: Using photography to capture site activities and research milestones requires both technical skills and creative vision. The officer must be able to tell a visual story that highlights the site’s work and achievements.
Digital Marketing:
- Social Media Management: Managing the site’s social media accounts involves engaging with followers, sharing updates and research findings, and promoting events and initiatives. The officer must have a deep understanding of social media platforms and trends.
- Online Reputation Management: Monitoring online conversations and reviews and responding promptly and appropriately is critical for maintaining a positive reputation. The officer must be adept at handling public relations and crisis communications.
- Analytics: Monitoring and analysing the performance of digital marketing efforts using analytics tools requires strong analytical skills. The officer must be able to interpret data to assess effectiveness and inform future strategies.
Event Management Support:
- Event Concept Development: Assisting in the development of event concepts, themes, and objectives requires creativity and strategic thinking. The officer must align event plans with the site’s communication strategy and goals.
- Materials Creation: Creating event materials such as invitations, programs, signage, and presentations requires design skills and the ability to effectively communicate key messages.
- On-Site Support: Providing on-site support during events, including managing registration, coordinating speakers and presenters, and addressing issues, requires strong organizational and interpersonal skills.
Applications with complete C.Vs, including 3 referees and their full address or contact telephone number, copies of academic certificates and testimonials, should be addressed to the MU-JHU Director Human Resources, through the reception on first floor, MU-JHU 1 Building or sent by email (application should not exceed 15MBs) to HR@mujhu.org – not later than 12th August 2024 by 5.30pm. Only short-listed applicants will be contacted.
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General
Simplicity, Service & Scholarship: Hallmarks of Professor Livingstone Luboobi’s Legacy
Published
10 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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