Makerere Mourns the Passing of Legendary Journalism Lecturer, Dr. Jack Smith

Makerere University is set to remember an influential figure from its past, Dr. Jack Smith, during a memorial service this evening at the Kampala Baptist Church in Nakulabye.

For over 25 years, Dr. Smith left an indelible mark on generations of students who studied journalism and mass communication at Makerere.

“In Makerere University, he will be remembered for his good work over 25 years. Our students will miss his guidance,” said Makerere Vice-Chancellor Barnabas Nawangwe, paying tribute to the late lecturer.

Born on 24th September, 1940, Dr. Smith passed away on Monday, leaving behind a legacy of inspiring and transforming his students.

Tributes have been flowing in since then, especially from renowned former students.

🕯️Deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Jack Smith, a public speaking lecturer at @Makerere .

In our Mass Communication classes [2009-2012] at the University, Dr. Smith taught us the art of crafting rebuttals with poise, [using his British accent, we nicknamed him ‘reburral’… pic.twitter.com/w9VvRgXFhB
— Allan Ssempebwa K. (@assempebwa) December 3, 2024

Shocked to hear the death of Dr Jack Smith.

He was my mentor and good friend.

He chose to serve in war torn Uganda starting in 1982.

Taught me all the skills in communication and group dynamics. https://t.co/Wt8VhFreVc pic.twitter.com/sBFlMiUr2o
— Martin Ssempa (@martinssempa) December 4, 2024

Rest in eternal peace, Dr. Jack Smith, my former lecturer for "The Art of Public Speaking" @Makerere. His classes were transformative experiences.

Watching us (students )overcome anxiety and emerge stronger and more confident is a testament to his exceptional teaching style. pic.twitter.com/KKtXUaSRZs
— Lillian K. Mpwereirwe (@KorutaroLillian) December 4, 2024

To all those who knew Dr Jack Smith–the multi talented American who became a Ugandan and taught across disciplines, from writing to photography, psychology to medicine, Bible studies and theology–the legend has rested.
At @Makerere university Mass Communication writing… pic.twitter.com/sULP8OnAP1
— Julius Mucunguzi (@j_mucunguzi) December 3, 2024