Gulu University

Gulu University is a public university in Gulu, Uganda.

The history of Gulu University is one of resilience and hope. The university was founded in 2002, during the midst of the brutal civil war in northern Uganda. The war had ravaged the region, destroying schools and infrastructure, and displacing millions of people. Despite the challenges, the people of Gulu were determined to build a better future for themselves and their children. They saw education as the key to rebuilding their lives and their community. In 2001, the Parliament of Uganda passed the Gulu University Act, establishing the university as a public institution.

Gulu University admitted its first students in September 2002. The university began with a small number of students and staff, but it quickly grew. In 2009, GU established a constituent college in the city of Lira, which is about 100 kilometres (62 mi) to the southeast of Gulu. The campus, then named Lira University College, admitted its first students in August 2012 (100 of them). GU has faced many challenges in its early years. The university has been underfunded, and it has been difficult to attract and retain qualified staff. However, GU has persevered, and it has become a leading institution of higher learning in Uganda.

GU is a symbol of hope and resilience for the people of northern Uganda. The university is providing its students with the education they need to rebuild their lives and their community. GU is also making a significant contribution to the development of Uganda and the African continent. Gulu University is a young university, but it has already made a significant impact on Uganda and the African continent. GU is committed to providing its students with a high-quality education and to conducting research that makes a positive impact on society.

Gulu University is ranked as the #5 top university in Uganda during 2025. This is the same rank as last year.