By Our Reporter
Uganda is mourning the loss of one of its most distinguished scholars, Professor Livingstone Serwadda Luboobi, the former Vice Chancellor of Makerere University and a celebrated mathematician. He passed away on Wednesday evening at Mulago National Referral Hospital after battling an undisclosed illness. He was 79.
News of his death was confirmed by close family members, sparking an outpouring of grief across academic and scientific communities in Uganda and beyond.
Born on December 25, 1944, in Kalisizo, Rakai District, Prof. Luboobi rose from humble beginnings to become a towering intellectual figure whose career spanned over five decades. He joined Makerere University in 1970 as a Special Assistant and steadily climbed the academic ladder to become a Full Professor in 1997 and later the university’s Vice Chancellor from 2004 to 2009.
Prof. Luboobi’s academic pedigree was unmatched. He earned a First Class Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Makerere University, followed by an MSc in Operations Research from the University of Toronto in Canada, and later a PhD in Applied Mathematics (Biomathematics) from the University of Adelaide in Australia. He was also a Fulbright Scholar at the University of California, Berkeley and conducted advanced research at the University of Bergen, Norway.
His intellectual brilliance was matched by his passion for teaching and mentorship. He lectured at top universities including the University of Toronto and the University of Dar es Salaam, and supervised dozens of Master’s and PhD students in applied mathematics.
A Legacy At Makerere & Beyond
During his tenure as Vice Chancellor, Prof. Luboobi spearheaded numerous reforms at Makerere. He championed academic freedom, boosted research output, and was instrumental in forging global partnerships that lifted the university’s international standing.
In recognition of his contributions, the University of Bergen awarded him an Honorary Doctorate in 2008, citing his efforts in “internationalising higher education” and promoting academic collaboration across continents.
In 2013, Makerere University presented him with a Lifetime Achievement Award, praising his commitment to excellence, institutional development, and mentorship.
“Prof. Luboobi wasn’t just a professor—he was a nation-builder,” said a statement from the Makerere University Council. “His leadership helped shape the university into a beacon of African higher education.”
A National Resource & Mentor
Prof. Luboobi’s influence extended far beyond the lecture halls. He served as an advisor to the Ministry of Education, contributed to national curriculum reforms, and participated in regional education policy development. His work inspired countless Ugandan youth to pursue careers in science, mathematics, and research.
He also played a key role in establishing the Makerere University Private Sector Forum, creating a bridge between academia and industry.
Even in retirement, Prof. Luboobi remained active—offering mentorship, reviewing academic publications, and advocating for quality education.
Condolences have poured in from across the globe—from former students and colleagues to scholars and education leaders—remembering him as a humble giant, a visionary educator, and a patriotic intellectual.
“He mentored generations and reshaped higher education in Uganda. His wisdom, calm leadership, and dedication will never be forgotten,” said a former student and now lecturer at Makerere.
Prof. Luboobi is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren. The family has requested privacy as they finalize funeral arrangements, which will be communicated in due course.
As the nation reflects on his legacy, one message rings clear: Prof. Livingstone S. Luboobi did more than teach mathematics—he built institutions, inspired a generation, and elevated Uganda’s place in the global academic arena.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
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