Gulu University Promotes 14 Academic Staff

Gulu University has recognized the dedication of 14 academic staff members by promoting them to higher academic ranks, marking a significant achievement in their professional careers. The promotions included two new full professors, six associate professors, and six senior lecturers, signifying the university’s commitment to academic excellence and growth.

During a ceremony held on September 25, 2024, Vice Chancellor Prof. George Ladaah Openjuru handed over appointment letters to the newly promoted staff. He lauded their hard work and commitment, encouraging them to continue striving for excellence. “I urge you to maintain the same dedication and inspire others through your research, publications, and mentorship of younger colleagues,” said Prof. Openjuru.

The Vice Chancellor emphasized the increased responsibility that comes with these promotions, urging the staff to focus on collaborative research and publishing more academic work to elevate the university’s profile. “We must work together to put Gulu University on the map through our academic contributions,” he added.

Prof. Wilfred Lajul, one of the newly promoted full professors from the Department of Religious Studies, echoed the Vice Chancellor’s sentiments. He highlighted the importance of collaboration in academia, stating, “In academics, there is no rivalry but complementarity. We must support each other and invest time in mentoring the younger generation.”

The promotion process was a rigorous one, with challenges related to budgetary constraints delaying some of the promotions from the previous financial year. Gulu University Secretary, Mr. David Obol Otori, acknowledged the delays but expressed gratitude to the staff for their patience. “The harmonization of salary scales across public universities required additional resources, which caused delays. However, we are glad that the process has now been completed,” said Mr. Otori.

Ms. Christine Immaculate Apio, the university’s Chief Human Resource Manager, appreciated the work of the vetting committee in ensuring the promotion process was thorough and fair. “The effort of the vetting committee has been instrumental in making today’s achievement possible,” she said.

The ceremony was also graced by Gulu University Council Chair, Mrs. Theresa Mary Obbo, who congratulated the promoted staff on their accomplishments. “This is a significant milestone in your professional journey. The university is proud of your achievements,” Mrs. Obbo remarked.

Promotions Include:

• Full Professors:
  • Prof. Davy David Okello Owiny – Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs
  • Prof. Wilfred Lajul – Department of Religious Studies
• Associate Professors:
  • Dr. Geoffrey Maxwell Malinga – Department of Biology
  • Dr. Christine Oryema – Department of Biology
  • Dr. Benedict Oyo – Department of Computer Science
  • Dr. Bebwa Isingoma – Department of Languages and Literature
  • Dr. Paul Delewa Onyango – Department of Accounting and Finance
  • Dr. Martine Nyeko – Department of Biosystems Engineering
• Senior Lecturers:
  • Dr. Solomon Olum – Department of Food Science and Post-Harvest Technology
  • Dr. Christopher Muggaga – Department of Food Science and Post-Harvest Technology
  • Dr. Simon Peter Alarakol – Department of Biochemistry
  • Dr. Geoffrey Tabo Olok – Department of Computer Science
  • Dr. Expedito Nuwategeka – Department of Geography
  • Dr. George Oriangi – Department of Geography

These promotions are part of Gulu University’s broader mission to support academic growth, foster collaboration, and contribute to the country’s higher education landscape through research and mentorship.