LIRA, Uganda – Tears of joy streamed down the cheeks of staff, and ululations filled the air, as Vice Chancellor Prof. Jasper Ogwal Okeng officially resumed office on Monday, 13th July 2026, ending a months-long sick leave with a triumphant return.
Led by a brass band, excited staff walked alongside a convoy of vehicles, with Prof. Ogwal Okeng waving through the window to jubilant crowds. The procession culminated at the Education Building, where a Top Management meeting was immediately convened.
In a formal handover, Dr. Andrew Ojulong—the Senior Librarian who had served as Acting VC since March 2026—returned the office in the presence of Faculty Deans and Directors. Prof. Ogwal Okeng expressed profound gratitude, saying: “I am back to my office, extremely happy that the university has been running very well, with the steering experience of this young man, Dr. Ojulong. I keep getting praises from colleagues across the country—he is a real leader, eloquent and vibrant.”
He thanked medical teams for his successful treatment and all who prayed for his recovery. “God still wants me to continue walking the journey with you, to make sure Lira University accomplishes its mission and vision to the fullest. Together, with this strong team and our disciplined students, no doubt we shall be among the best in the country and globally,” he said amidst applause.
The VC dismissed claims of institutional decline, declaring: “Outside, some may think Lira University is collapsing—that is very wrong. The university is growing day and night. Over 3,000 new students have been admitted this academic year (2026/2027)—a powerful leap from the 66 students we started with.”
On internal conflicts, he said they are common in public universities, citing Makerere, Gulu, Kyambogo, and Soroti. “It is already in court; let us wait for the ruling,” he said, adding that the university is a self-accounting institution, not run like a primary or secondary school.
Prof. Ogwal Okeng also praised three staff whose contracts recently expired: University Secretary Mr. Augustine Oyang Atubo, Bursar CPA Hasahya Nathan Hagobi, and Dean of Students Ms. Emma Aceng. “They were great champions that ensured the young university grows. We cannot forget what they did,” he said.
He cautioned staff against leaking official information to the press without authority, reminding them of their oath of secrecy. “It is illegal and calls for disciplinary action against perpetrators,” he warned.
Dr. Ojulong commended staff for their cooperation during his tenure, saying: “I am so happy with Prof. Ogwal Okeng for choosing me to act. Indeed, several achievements were realised—teaching, research, and innovation were effectively implemented, and over 30 high-profile meetings were attended nationally and globally.”
He revealed that key infrastructure projects are advancing: the Administration Building is now at 99% completion, and the AFCON training ground is progressing at high speed.
Acting University Secretary Mr. Tom Atim warmly welcomed back the VC, stating: “We have been working with Dr. Ojulong as a coordinated, strong force. We run public offices through coordination, consultations, mutual trust and respect, with a focus on accomplishing targets together. This is the team spirit we promote.”
Quoting Colossians 3:12, Mr. Atim added: “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”
The return marked a new chapter of unity and ambition for Lira University, as staff and leadership pledged to build on the momentum of growth and resilience.
