Museveni Pays Tribute to Former Makerere Vice-Chancellor Prof Luboobi

KAMPALA — President Museveni has joined the nation in mourning the passing of Professor Livingstone Luboobi, the former Vice-Chancellor of Makerere University, hailing him as a brilliant mind who served Uganda with integrity and distinction.

In a tribute issued on Sunday, Museveni recalled his shared school days with Prof Luboobi at Ntare School between 1961 and 1964, describing him as a classmate and friend whose intellectual gifts became evident early on.

“It is with deep sorrow that I also learnt of the death of my classmate at Ntare School, Professor Livingstone Luboobi,” Museveni said.

“He was a gifted mathematician who rendered good contribution to the education sector. I salute his contribution and thank God for his life.”

Prof Luboobi, who passed away on Wednesday, July 17, was Uganda’s first Vice-Chancellor of Makerere University under the new university governance structures introduced in the early 2000s.

He served in the role from 2004 to 2009 and was widely respected for his calm leadership, academic brilliance, and advocacy for science and mathematics education in Uganda.

Beyond administration, Prof Luboobi was a renowned mathematical physicist whose research contributed to modelling real-world systems in epidemiology and economics.

He held multiple academic roles at Makerere prior to becoming Vice-Chancellor, including heading the Department of Mathematics and serving as Dean of the Faculty of Science.

His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from academics, former students, and government officials who credited him with mentoring generations of scientists and strengthening the university’s academic foundations during a critical period of transition.

President Museveni extended his condolences to the late professor’s family and friends, concluding his message with a prayer for his soul to rest in eternal peace.

A burial program is expected to be announced by the family and Makerere University in the coming days.