Gulu University EARRIEA Project Participants Showcase Research Ideas at Seminar
Gulu University, through the EU-Africa Relations and Regional Integration in East Africa (EARRIEA) Project, held a student research seminar on 20th October 2026 at Gulu University, bringing together 31 participants including students, staff and representatives from civil society. The students presented their research ideas and received feedback. The seminar, a key requirement for students completing the EARRIEA Jean-Monnet Erasmus+ training module, provided a platform for strengthening research skills and exploring issues relevant to African development, governance and regional cooperation. Five graduates of the programme’s first cohort, which completed training in November 2025, chaired the sessions and mentored their colleagues, alongside Gulu University lecturers and programme facilitators.
The seminar featured a keynote address by Professor Lynette Odondi, a Lecturer in the Department of Diplomacy and International Studies at the University of Nairobi, who spoke on “Prospects for Africa’s Future in the 21st-Century Multi crisis World.” She emphasised the importance of African leadership, ownership of the continent’s development narrative and locally driven solutions to persistent challenges, including conflicts and governance deficits.
Mr Okello Franklin Boniface of Gulu NGO Forum also engaged students on the role of Non-Governmental Organisations in community development, their operational challenges and opportunities for research and employment within the sector. He encouraged students to build resilience, develop practical skills and use research to generate evidence that responds to community needs.
The EARRIEA Project Coordinator, Associate Professor Julaina A. Obika, commended the students for their efforts and urged them to continue developing their research skills and pursue publication opportunities. She highlighted the value of the EARRIEA module in complementing students’ core university studies and deepening their understanding of regional cooperation.
Launched at Gulu University in 2025, the three-year EARRIEA Project continues to equip students with knowledge and skills to engage critically with EU-Africa relations and regional integration in East Africa.
Comment (1)
I am deeply honoured and sincerely grateful to have participated in the EARRIEA student research seminar at Gulu University, where I had the opportunity to present my research proposal titled “The Role of the East African Community in Promoting Regional Economic Integration in East Africa: A Case Study of Uganda.”
My heartfelt appreciation goes to Gulu University and the entire EARRIEA Project team for organising such an insightful and impactful seminar. I am particularly grateful to the keynote speaker, Professor Lynette Odondi, the programme coordinator, Associate Professor Julaina A. Obika, the facilitators, and all the mentors for their invaluable guidance, encouragement, and constructive feedback. Their insights have inspired me to think more critically, refine my research, and appreciate the importance of research in addressing regional development challenges.
I also extend my sincere gratitude to my fellow participants for the meaningful discussions and exchange of ideas. This experience has been an important milestone in my academic journey, strengthening my commitment to understanding regional economic integration and the role of the East African Community in advancing cooperation and sustainable development in East Africa.
Thank you, Gulu University and the EARRIEA Project, for investing in students, nurturing young researchers, and creating opportunities for academic excellence and professional growth. I am truly appreciative of this opportunity and look forward to applying the knowledge and skills gained to contribute meaningfully to research and the development of our region.
Atwebembeire Derrick
Bachelor of Science Education (Physical)
Faculty of Education and Humanities.