His first visit to Makerere University was back in 1988. Professor Lillethun was deeply touched by the (then) sorry state of the laboratories at the Department of Physics. This prompted him to use his experience to secure additional funding, not only for the Department of Physics, but also for the Department of Chemistry and Mathematics.
In 1991 the application “Basic Sciences for Technological Development in Uganda” was approved, much thanks to Professor Lillethun and his prevailing efforts. It was decided that the University of Bergen should be the collaborating university in Norway. These projects also lead to increased research at the Department of Physics.
This marked the start of a long and fruitful collaboration between the two universities. The last result of this long collaboration is a joint PhD program. Both universities have high hopes that this will lead to greater internationalization of graduates as well as a venture into new areas of research.
The Honorary Doctorate was awarded to Professor Lillethun on the grounds of his contribution to human development and advancement of Basic Sciences at Makerer University. The Doctorate was awarded to Professor Lillethun by the Chancellor at Makerere University Professor Mondo Kagonyera. Professor J.Y.T Mugisha was the orator at the ceremony. The award was accepted by Professor Lillethun in absencia, by his wife Mrs Karen Lillethun.
The graduation ceremony also marked a special occasion in the history of Makerere University. For the first time in Makerere University’s history there was more female than male graduates.