Gulu University has awarded degrees and diplomas to 1,569 students in its 20th graduation ceremony, held on January 24, 2025, at the university grounds.
The event, presided over by Chancellor Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda, recognized outstanding academic performers. Okwir Kizito, who pursued a Bachelor of Business Administration, emerged as the best male graduate with a CGPA of 4.83. Ayaa Susan Safira, a Bachelor of Secretarial and Administrative Studies graduate, was the best female student with a CGPA of 4.67.
Dr. Rugunda commended the university for maintaining high academic standards and aligning its programs with national development goals. “Gulu University recognizes higher education as a cornerstone in achieving Vision 2040 and National Development Plan IV. We have a responsibility to produce skilled human resources for a knowledge-based economy,” he said.
University Council Chairperson Mary Theresa Obbo applauded parents and sponsors for investing in education. “I urge graduates to use their knowledge with love for the country. We must be committed to applying knowledge morally and patriotically,” she said.
Vice Chancellor Prof. George Ladaah Openjuru announced an increase in PhD graduates from three in the previous graduation to four this year. The total number of graduates also rose by 16% from 1,358 in 2024 to 1,569 in 2025.
In a speech delivered by State Minister for Primary Education Dr. Joyce Moriku Kaducu, First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports Maama Janet Museveni praised Prof. Openjuru’s leadership. “One needs to credit Gulu University management under Prof. Openjuru, who was recognized as one of Africa’s best educationalists in 2023. His leadership is unique,” she said.
President Yoweri Museveni, also represented by Dr. Kaducu, urged universities to focus on practical knowledge and skills for employability and wealth creation. “Ugandan and African universities must play three key roles—shaping ideology, advancing technology such as ICT, and offering services for socio-economic transformation. Learning must go beyond passing knowledge to equipping students to compete globally,” he said.
The ceremony was attended by government officials, university leaders, and families of the graduates.
