news 30 March 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Makerere University Pays Tribute to Beloved 'Uncle John' Ekudu-Adoku
John Ekudu-Adoku, fondly known as 'Uncle John,' was remembered at his funeral as a compassionate yet firm dean of students at Makerere University who mentored generations before retiring in 2010. Tributes highlighted his faith, leadership, and lasting impact on the campus community. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/makerere-friends-pay-tribute-to-uncle-john-ekudu-adoku-5408216
John Michaels Ekudu-Adoku, widely called ‘Uncle John’ or Mr. Ekudu, passed away at 76 due to diabetes and kidney complications. He served as Makerere University’s dean of students until his 2010 retirement, often stepping in to calm campus tensions and prevent strikes.
Familiar figure near University Hall flats, he earned admiration as a caring disciplinarian. Born in 1948 in Alwa Sub-County, Kaberamaido District, to an Anglican family, he graduated from Makerere with a Botany and Zoology degree in 1974 and later earned a postgraduate diploma in Education.
He married Grace at St. Francis Chapel in 1976 and devoted post-retirement years to preaching at Kampala Baptist Church. His funeral at the church in Nakulabye drew tributes from university leaders.
Makerere Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe praised his enduring counsel beyond duty. Former Uganda Christian University VC Dr. John Senyonyi recalled his mentorship since 1978, noting his warden role at Northcote Hall before becoming dean in 1995.
Supreme Court Justice Mike Chibita shared fond memories of Ekudu-Adoku’s humor about Baptist principles. Deputy VC Prof. Sarah Ssali recounted a 2000 incident where students delivered a coffin amid campus deaths, which he handled with grace to restore order.
Survived by wife Grace, children Paul, Charity, Faith, and Hope, plus grandchildren, his burial occurred in Kaberamaido District on March 31, 2026.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)