Odoki assumes Lira University chancellorship

Former Chief Justice Benjamin Odoki has assumed office as the first Chancellor of Lira University.

Odoki was appointed by President Yoweri Museveni in 2016 when the varsity attained its autonomous status.

The university was a constituent college of Gulu University since 2009 and in July 2016, government upgraded it to an independent or public institution of learning.

Odoki pledged to handle challenges facing the young university by lobbying for support both nationally and intentionally.

"I work as a consultant with African Development Bank. I will talk about Lira University and request for more support," he assured hundreds of students, lecturers and non-teaching staff who flocked the varsity to welcome him on Thursday.   

"I nearly refused the appointment but what I see on ground has impressed me," he added. 

He said he will request government to increase funding to Lira University.    

The acting Vice Chancellor, Professor Jaspher Ogwal Okeng guided Dr Odoki in a brief tour of the university, and explained to him the challenges they underwent to establish the higher institution of learning and attracting students.

"This place was bushy in 2009 when we came but I am happy we struggled and we have fully instituted the university," he said.

He said they started with teaching public administration and management and added business administration but now they have opened two faculties of health science and computer sciences.

They also introduced other academic programmes in community psychology, commerce and midwifery. The construction of the hospital is ongoing.

The university is established on 650 acres of land which was officially handed over to build the institution by Lango paramount chief, Yosam Odur Ebii.

The university started with 150 students but now it has 691 students according to the university secretary Augustine Oyang Atubo.