Gulu crushes Muni to storm Ultimate University Quiz Season Three semifinals

KAMPALA - Last year’s Ultimate University Quiz Season Two champions Gulu University have crushed their opponents, 310-120 points squared off with Muni University in the second quarterfinal game of Season Three.

As the two teams walked onto the stage, Quizz mistress Lydia Lakwonyero's voice set the tone: “We are in the quarterfinals, and our second teams to play — Muni University versus Gulu University!” The crowd erupted in cheers as both sides took their positions.

Gulu University introduced as “last year’s champions here to defend their title,” wore the confidence of seasoned players. Muni University, described by the moderator as “a very tough team,” stepped up with composure, determined to pull an upset.

Gulu University introduced as “last year’s champions here to defend their title,” wore the confidence of seasoned players. (All Photos by Miriam Namutebi)

Round One, themed: General Knowledge, opened with a bang. Gulu struck first, confidently answering, “Absa Group,” when asked about a British banking giant that had rebranded in 2022. 

Muni hit back with equal precision on the next question, identifying another global bank’s exit from the region.

But as questions rolled on, from African history to viral diseases and sports trivia, Gulu began to dominate. 

They nailed answers about Ghana’s Jerry Rawlings, the Tsavo lions, and even the term “shuttlecock” in badminton.

Muni University, described by the moderator as “a very tough team,” stepped up with composure, determined to pull an upset.

When the scores were read, Gulu 90, Muni 30, the difference in momentum was clear.

“These are champions of last year; they are not an easy team,” the host reminded the audience as applause filled the room.

Round Two tested the teams’ science knowledge. Though Muni put up a fight, it was Gulu who picked up the pace, answering quickly and confidently on topics like fibre-optic technology and physics fundamentals. 

By the end of the third round, the defending champions were miles ahead, showing both accuracy and teamwork.

Then came Round Four, the rapid-fire finale. The category: Women Leaders Around the World, played directly to Gulu’s strengths. With unwavering focus, the team fired off correct responses one after another.

The quiz has grown into a national movement that equips learners with the skills needed in today’s ever-evolving job market.

When asked who became Prime Minister of Pakistan in 1988, their captain replied without hesitation, “Benazir Bhutto.” The next question, “Who was Britain’s first female Prime Minister?”—was met with another instant hit: “Margaret Thatcher.”

The streak continued: “Theresa May,” “Corazon Aquino,” “Angela Merkel,” “Joyce Banda,” and “Indira Gandhi.” Gulu barely missed a beat.

Muni struggled through the rapid round, consistently missing points on most of the questions asked, scoring a few points from the round.

By the final buzzer, Gulu university had racked up an astounding 340 points to Muni University’s 120.

As the host declared the results, the studio erupted. “Congratulations to Gulu University!” she announced. 

Both teams shook hands as the audience cheered. 

“Muni University, you put up a good fight,” the host said warmly. “Next time, you will do better.” 

With their commanding win, Gulu University now advances to the semifinals, their composure and brilliance reaffirming why they remain the team to beat this season.

By the final buzzer, Gulu university had racked up an astounding 340 points to Muni University’s 120.

Sponsors

The Vision Group and Net Studios Africa-powered competition, which targets to attract over 20 chartered universities across the country, is being sponsored by the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA) and major sponsor Bank of Uganda (BOU).

The quiz has grown into a national movement that equips learners with the skills needed in today’s ever-evolving job market.

Prizes

The stakes in this season’s Ultimate University Quiz are higher than ever. The champions will walk away with a shillings 25 million prize package in brand-new equipment, while each of the four contestants and their coach will pocket shillings one million and receive a new laptop to match their victory.

The runner-up team will claim shillings 15 million, with each participant rewarded 500,000 and a laptop for their impressive effort.

Those in the third position will take home 10 million, and each member will still walk away with 300,000 and a tablet.

In the true spirit of encouragement, even teams that bowed out early will receive shillings 200,000 for both participants and coaches, as a token of appreciation for their contribution to the competition.