Lira University welcomes over 1,000 new students, promotes skills and leadership

14 August 2026, 3:54 pm

By Isaac Erick Odongo

Lira City — Lira University has welcomed more than 1,000 newly admitted students for the 2026/2027 academic year, with university leadership urging them to acquire practical skills and become responsible citizens capable of contributing to the development of Uganda and the wider Lango Sub-region.

Speaking during activities to welcome the new students, Lira University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Jaspher Watson Ogwal Okeng, said the institution is committed to producing graduates who can stand on their own and contribute meaningfully to national development.

He encouraged the students to go beyond acquiring academic knowledge and focus on developing practical skills that can be applied in the workplace and other areas of society.

Ogwal Okeng also commended President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for supporting the growth of the university and promoting infrastructure development, saying the investments have contributed to raising the institution’s profile and expanding access to higher education in the region.

Lira City Resident City Commissioner Emmy Lawrence Egole challenged the newly admitted students to embrace responsible leadership and help identify challenges affecting their communities.

Egole urged the students to work with university authorities and fellow students to find practical solutions to challenges that may affect their welfare and academic progress.

He also encouraged students to make proper use of the available sports and other university facilities, saying such activities can help promote talent, discipline and teamwork while contributing to the development of Lira University and the wider Lango Sub-region.

Associate Professor Judith Abal, who is serving as Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, said the university is prepared to support the new students throughout their academic journey.

Abal encouraged students facing academic or other challenges to seek guidance from her office and other relevant university authorities instead of keeping their problems to themselves.

She urged the students to take advantage of the available support systems to ensure a smooth academic experience at Lira University.

Lira University Guild President Benedict Arac welcomed the new students and urged them to respect university rules and regulations.

Arac called on students to maintain discipline, respect one another and make responsible decisions throughout their time at the university.

Lira University admitted 3,320 new students for the 2025/2026 academic year, compared with 2,345 students admitted in the previous academic year, reflecting continued growth in student enrolment at the institution.

The university leadership says the growing enrolment presents an opportunity to expand access to higher education while equipping young people with the knowledge, skills and values needed to contribute to Uganda’s development.