The first executive committee, including a chairperson, vice chair, treasurer, and secretary, was sworn in on 5 December 2024.
By Willy Chowoo
Gulu City — Former Gulu University Guild President Okot Francis has been elected the new Chairperson of the Gulu University Convocation, succeeding the late Pastor Joseph Okidi, the institution’s inaugural convocation chairperson.
Okot, who served as the 22nd Guild President of Gulu University (2023-2024), was elected during the 3rd Annual University Convocation General Meeting held at the University Library.
He contested against Mule Taban Richard after three other aspirants who had earlier expressed interest failed to turn up for the election. Okot secured 72 votes (73.5%) out of the 98 votes cast, while Mule garnered 20 votes (20.4%). The election also recorded six invalid votes (6.1%).
In his acceptance speech, Okot pledged to work closely with the founding members to strengthen and grow the Convocation.
“I will work to make the University Convocation what it is meant to be,” Okot said, adding that he would prioritize mobilising alumni to expand convocation membership.
Earlier, the Convocation Secretary and University Academic Registrar, Dr. Jerry Bagaya, expressed concern over the slow growth of membership. He revealed that the Convocation has grown by 110 members over the past year, from 40 fully subscribed members to 150, despite the university having produced over 29,000 graduates in the last two decades.
Meanwhile, Alonyo Dolofine was elected Female Representative to the Convocation after defeating three other candidates. Alonyo polled 40 votes (40.8%), beating Atengo Brenda, who got 22 votes, Apio Caroline, with 18 votes, and Acan Jenifer, who received eight votes. The race recorded 10 invalid votes (10.2%).
Alonyo thanked members for entrusting her with the mandate and promised to serve diligently and represent their interests effectively.
The Chairperson of the Convocation Electoral Committee, Dr. Loum Constantine, commended members for peacefully exercising their democratic rights and filling the leadership gap left by the death of the late Joseph Okidi.
What “Convocation” Means at Gulu University
At Gulu University, Convocation (often referred to as Gulu University Convocation or GUCO) is the alumni body of the university—that is, the formal association of former students and some staff members. It plays a role in governance, alumni engagement, and supporting the institution’s growth. It’s established under the University and Other Tertiary Institutions Act, Cap 262 of Uganda.
The first executive committee, including a chairperson, vice chair, treasurer, and secretary, was sworn in on 5 December 2024. Their work focuses on alumni mobilization, strengthening ties with the university, and contributing to institutional development.
