Kampala, Uganda | NOW THEN DIGITAL — Dr. Martin Jerome Okec Aliker, a distinguished figure in Uganda, passed away at the age of 95, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and service. Born in Gulu District on October 21, 1928, Dr. Aliker was deeply rooted in the Acholi region’s rich heritage, born to Rwot Lacito Okech and Julaina Auma.
His journey in education began at Gulu High School, followed by studies at Kings College Budo for his O-Level studies. Later, he pursued higher education at Makerere University before earning a scholarship to Northwestern University in Chicago, Illinois, United States. There, he studied political science and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree.
Driven by a thirst for knowledge and excellence, Dr. Aliker continued his academic pursuits in dental surgery at Northwestern University, supported by a Fulbright Scholarship. His dedication to his field earned him a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree and recognition as a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons by the Royal College of Surgeons of England.
Beyond academia, Dr. Aliker made significant contributions to various sectors, serving as a senior presidential adviser and sitting on the boards of nearly forty Ugandan companies, including Coca-Cola, Uganda Breweries, and major banks. He also played pivotal roles as chancellor of Victoria University Uganda and as the founding chancellor of Gulu University from 2004 to 2014, fostering academic excellence and advancement.
Dr. Aliker’s passing is mourned not only in Uganda but also in the wider global community, where his impact resonates as a beacon of inspiration and dedication to service. His legacy will endure through the lives he touched and the institutions he helped shape, serving as a reminder of the power of passion, perseverance, and purposeful leadership.
Dr. Aliker’s Passing Mourned
It is with great sadness that I received the news of the passing of Dr. Martin Aliker, a highly respected dentist, intellectual, businessman, and true patriot who dedicated his life to serving his country. My deepest condolences go out to the Aliker family, friends, and relatives… pic.twitter.com/lzz3PRA8zd
— Anita Annet Among (@AnitahAmong) April 15, 2024
Good bye my Go to Person. I count myself to have won your heart and trust. Rest well Dr. Martin Aliker 🙏🙏🙏 pic.twitter.com/R2X9Vxf8Y5
— Thomas Tayebwa (@Thomas_Tayebwa) April 15, 2024
Rest in Peace Dr. Martin Jerome Okec Aliker! pic.twitter.com/3NFsdda9xE
— Victoria University, Kampala (@VUKampala) April 15, 2024
During a 2018 NTV interview, Dr. Martin Aliker criticized the government, highlighting the collapse of the administration in the country. #NTVNews
He emphasized the need to restore the old-fashioned administration left by the British, citing its effectiveness. Aliker expressed… pic.twitter.com/goXa0zzFy6
— NTV UGANDA (@ntvuganda) April 15, 2024
Dr Aliker (Our Chairman of Chairmen) has rested. A gentleman with endless humour. May Camille and the family be comforted by their treasured memories. pic.twitter.com/IZLq36S48y
— Kwame Ejalu (@KwameEjalu) April 15, 2024
With profound sadness, the @VUKampala family mourns the loss of our former Chancellor, Dr. Martin Jerome Okec Aliker. A distinguished dental surgeon, respected businessman, and advisor to the President, Dr. Aliker also had the foresight to establish the first Black-owned dental… pic.twitter.com/wQ3znZkoGp
— ᗪᖇ. ᒪᗩᗯᖇEᑎᑕE ᗰᑌGᗩᑎGᗩ (@ReachDrMuganga) April 15, 2024