Gulu University to expand by 5,000 students

Gulu University is planning to expand the number of students by 5,000 through the Department of Open, Distance, Electronic, and Lifelong Learning (ODELL).
Prof. George Ladaah Openjuru, the Vice Chancellor of Gulu University revealed this during the ODELL launch on 28 th July, 2025 at the University main campus.

The VC emphasized that once this dream is realized, it will go a long way in enabling students in neighbouring countries like South Sudan and other East African Countries to benefit from the services of Gulu University through online learning. “This achievement will improve access to education and the well-being of our community,” said the VC.

VC speaking on widening and deepening lifelong learning.
Currently, Gulu university has a population of over 6,000 students in the different departments. This new development comes with a wide range of opportunities for Gulu as a community and institution to facilitate learning services for a wide range of people from youth to adults through the establishment of infrastructure and availing learning services.

The collaboration of Gulu University with UNESCO and other knowledge-based entities under ODELL Department aims to fulfil the purpose and motto of Gulu University for community transformation as well as satisfy the goals of ODELL by expanding access to higher education, conduct applied research and provide quality professional training for the delivery of appropriate services all directed towards social transformation and promotion of rural transformation and industrialization for sustainable development.

Dr. Josje Van Der Linden representing UNESCO chair.
The ODELL department was officially launched by Dr. Ofuyuru Thaddeus, the Dean Faculty of Education and Humanities who represented the Deputy Vice Chancellor Prof. David Okello Owiny.