Uganda Mourns The Irreplaceable Loss Of Academic Giant, Professor Katamba Paul, In Bugema University Memorial Service

Luwero, Uganda – Thursday, February 1, 2024

In a solemn gathering at its main campus in Luwero, Bugema University paid heartfelt tribute to the late Professor Katamba Paul, who served as the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academics until his passing on Tuesday, January 30, 2024. The memorial service held on Wednesday, January 31, brought together a diverse assembly, including family, university staff, political figures, and prominent members of the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) community.

The officiating minister, former Archbishop Pr. Christian Alideki, led the service, which featured a poignant reading of Isaiah 26:19-20, capturing the essence of the occasion with the verse, “Thy dead men shall live, together with my dead body shall they arise.”

Bugema University Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Pr. Kaferoo Israel, expressed gratitude for Prof Katamba’s dedication to the institution, highlighting his profound impact on students and mourning the loss of a distinguished academic.

“We are here to celebrate the life of a man who granted himself to Bugema, the life of students he has changed,” remarked Dr. Kaferoo. “Bugema has lost a Ph.D., and what I admired about the late is his love for working for the church and making friends.”

Among the attendees were grieving family members, Hon. Rose Namayanja Nsereko from the National Resistance Movement (NRM) secretariat, SDA trustees from Buganda SDA church, and SDA council members of the Uganda Union. Reflecting on a 35-year acquaintance with the fallen academic, Ms. Namayanja Rose celebrated Prof Katamba’s accomplishments and contributions to Bugema University and the country’s education sector.

“We thank the Lord for his life and contribution toward Bugema University and the Country’s Education sector. I thank the university administration for celebrating his life,” she said.

The late professor’s wife, Mrs. Katamba Sarah, expressed gratitude towards Bugema University for their care and support. “We will always be grateful for his life and love towards us, his family.”

The memorial service concluded with the announcement of the burial ceremony scheduled for today (Thursday, February 1st), at Namirembe Semuto at 2 pm.

Profile Background

Reflecting on Professor Katamba’s journey, the obituary unveiled a rich tapestry of accomplishments. Born in 1964, he navigated through Kapeka Primary School, Kintante Hill School, Old Kampala Secondary School, and Makerere University. His educational odyssey included a diploma in computer studies in South Africa, a certificate in computer literacy in Russia, and a Ph.D. in Developmental Education.

Joining Bugema University in 2001 as a registrar and lecturer, Professor Katamba ascended through various roles, culminating in his tenure as the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academics from 2016 to June 2023. His legacy extended beyond administrative roles, with notable publications such as “Basic Research (Simplified for University Students),” “Fundamentals of Research and Thesis Statement,” and “Utilization and Evaluation of Web Learning.”

Professor Katamba’s indelible mark on Bugema University and the education sector at large will be remembered, cherished, and celebrated for years to come.