Gulu University has commenced processes to establish five additional faculties in a move to align its programs with science-based learning. According to the institution’s five-year strategic development plan, set to begin in 2026, the University will expand its current six faculties by introducing the Faculty of Engineering and Green Technologies as its flagship addition.
Other proposed units include the School of Pharmacy, School of Biomedical Sciences, School of Nursing and Midwifery, and the School of Computing and Informatics. Currently, Gulu University runs the Faculty of Law, Faculty of Agriculture and Environment, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Development Studies, Faculty of Education and Humanities, and the Faculty of Science.
It offers more than 80 academic programs ranging from undergraduate to doctoral levels through its Institute of Peace and Strategic Studies and the Directorate of Research and Graduate Programs, which together offer about 90 courses. The University Secretary, David Obol Otori, revealed the developments while addressing the media.
Otori explained that the multi-year expansions will be funded by the Ministry of Education. He added that a budget will soon be submitted to the Ministry of Finance for financing. Although he did not reveal full details, Otori said the proposed faculties are expected to be operational within five years.
The Academic Registrar, Dr. Jerry Bagaya, reported that Gulu University currently has an enrollment of over 7,000 students, with 44.3% pursuing science-based programs while arts-related programs account for 55.7%. Dr. Bagaya noted that once the new faculties are established, student enrollments will more than double, and additional job opportunities will be created as the University strengthens its human resource capacity.
Vice Chancellor, Professor George Openjuru Ladaah, expressed optimism that the new faculties will enhance the University’s innovations and research output in scientific fields. “We have won so many awards in a short period in science competitions, research, and innovations, and now we are an appreciated destination for learning,” Prof. Openjuru noted.
Founded in 2002, Gulu University has continued to contribute to rural transformation and peace-building in northern Uganda, following over two decades of insurgency by the Lord’s Resistance Army.
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