Gulu University to Host First-Ever Alumni Convocation

The northern-based Gulu University is set to host their first ever Alumni convocation under the theme; “Together towards the formation of the convocation of Gulu University”. As highlighted in the manifesto of the current Revamp Guild government, after many years of operation, the University will constitute their first-ever alumni platform.

“While these alumni of Gulu University have impacted on the nation significantly through their respective professional skills, the institution, which trained them has not tapped into their potential”, reads a section on the concept paper drafted by the guild government. It should be noted that there is a vacant slot at the University Council which is supposed to be filled by the representative of the alumni convocation. The first convocation will take place on 24th November 2018 at the university main Campus in Gulu.

“There will be a marching procession from Gulu town. There shall be the adoption of the terms of reference for the Interim Committee and then the Election of members of the Interim Committee”, said Mr Andrew Otto Ogwetta who is the chairperson of the steering committee for the convocation and also former Guild president of Gulu University 2014/15.

The keynote speakers include; Prof. Tanga Odoi–MUK Convocation, Mr Bruce Kabasa-MUK Convocation, Mr Okot Walter–Gulu University and many others. Many of the dynamic, influential alumni will also grace the event.

Mr Ogwetta noted that the alumni convocation is instituted by Section 38 of the Tertiary Institutions Act, Laws of Uganda and for long, this position has been vacant on the university council. He emphasized that the alumni platform will be instrumental in building the university,  playing active roles in university governance, social links between alumni and representing the views of the alumni as well as implementing university policies.

Campus bee had an interview with Mr Ogwetta Otto. Here is the short interview.

First, the general definition of Convocation is a “gathering together for a large formal assembly.” it refers to those members of the university community who are entitled to have input into aspects of the governance of the university such as voting for members of the governing body, attending general meetings or being consulted regarding major decisions. Because the Convocation (principally comprising graduates of Gulu University and former members of staff) is an integral part of the University, Gulu University differs from many other universities where graduates have no formal role in the university.

What activities are going to take place?

There will be a marching procession from Gulu town that shall involve the participation of prospective members of the Convocation. There then shall be Keynote speeches from our Guest Speakers, there shall be the adoption of the terms of reference for the Interim Committee and then the Election of members of the Interim Committee.

Why do you want to create a convocation?

First, as provided for in Section 38 of the Tertiary Institutions Act, Laws of Uganda, the topmost organ of a university which its Council is should be composed of a number of representatives which also includes the Convocation which we have lacked before. In addition to laws and policies, there also core functions that a Convocation has. These include; Representative role to represent the interests and opinions of members through effective communication and to present such views to the University and the community of Uganda, a governance role to encourage members of Convocation to participate in the governance of the University through the election of Convocation members to the Council and the review of amendments to University statutes, a Contribution role to encourage members to support and contribute to the intellectual and cultural prosperity of the University community. There is also an engagement role to promote professional and social links between members of Convocation by creating and supporting opportunities for graduate interaction and above all a Promotion role to promote the ideals and purpose of the University and Convocation to graduates and undergraduates, other members of the University and the community of Uganda.

What future do you Imagine for the convocation?

There shall be institutional and membership benefits of the Gulu University Convocation. The institutional benefit is to aid the achievement of the Gulu University vision. Convocation Members are eligible to become Subscribing Members of Convocation. These members support and assist the work of Convocation by contributing to the finances of the association by way of an annual subscription.