As part of its next five-year development plan, the university intends to establish five new faculties
By Ojok Tonny
Gulu City.
Gulu University is preparing to graduate 1,431 students during its 21st Graduation Ceremony scheduled for November 28, 2025.
Speaking to the media, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dr Openjuru Ladhah, confirmed that all the listed students had met the academic and administrative requirements to qualify for graduation. He revealed that the event is expected to attract more than 5,000 guests.
Prof. Openjuru highlighted the steady growth of the university in both academic performance and social development—achievements that have earned Gulu University national and international recognition. He cited several awards won by the institution, including the prestigious Ultimate University Quiz Award, among other academic accolades. He added that the university’s strong commitment to quality education and community transformation has positioned it as one of Africa’s leading institutions in community engagement.
For the first time in the institution’s history, Prof. Openjuru announced, all graduands will receive both their degree certificates and transcripts immediately after the ceremony. He attributed this milestone to the dedication of university staff and ongoing technological advancements. The decision to hold an earlier graduation was influenced by the upcoming general elections and the expected campaign season.
The Academic Registrar, Dr. Jerry Bagaya, noted that Gulu University currently has over 7,000 students enrolled across various programs. Of the 1,431 students set to graduate, 908 are male and 523 female. Five candidates will be awarded Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees—four from the Faculty of Agriculture and one from the Faculty of Peace and Strategic Studies.
Dr. Bagaya further reported that 13 students with disabilities (6 female and 7 male), as well as 11 international students, nine from South Sudan, one from Kenya, and one from Benin,will graduate, underscoring the university’s inclusive and globally recognized academic environment.
A total of 54 graduands will graduate with First Class degrees (41 male and 13 female), compared to 57 last year. Dr. Bagaya acknowledged a decline in the total number of graduands from 1,753 in 2024 to 1,431 in 2025, attributing the drop to reduced enrollment caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, he expressed optimism that numbers would rise again in subsequent years.
The University Secretary and Accounting Officer, Dr. David Obol Otori, revealed that Gulu University is nearing its 25th anniversary and continues to expand rapidly. As part of its next five-year development plan, the university intends to establish five new faculties
These additions will supplement the existing faculties and are expected to boost student enrollment and create new employment opportunities.
Since opening its doors in 2002, Gulu University has graduated approximately 30,000 students. The institution has also developed a student tracer system that enables it to track alumni in their workplaces, with feedback indicating strong and positive outcomes
