By Patrick Opio
Senior Communications Officer
Lira University carried out a two-day induction exercise spearheaded by the Directorate of Human Resources for newly appointed staff and others. Several presentations were made at the ceremony held at Education Block on 24th to 25th July 2025.
While welcoming the new staff, the University Council Chairperson, David Geoffrey Opio Okello congratulated the ladies and gentlemen upon choosing Lira University as the workplace for embarking on their next phase of professional growth, self-discovery, and personal development.
The newly appointed staff and others listen attentively
“You are joining a young and steadfast institution with a deeply rooted culture of academic excellence and effective service delivery” Opio Okello remarked. He encouraged the new staff to contribute meaningfully to the development of the university for it to be competitive globally.
Mr. Opio Okello stated that the University Council as the supreme governing body of the university is also the policy making body, whose Appointments Board oversees the appointment, promotion, removal from service, and discipline of all university staff and officers.
Vice Chancellor, Prof. Jasper Ogwal Okeng underscored the induction ceremony saying it is all meant to enable participants better understand their roles, the benefits due them, and the unique opportunities that come with working in the institution.
Prof. Ogwal Okeng encouraged the new staff to contribute to the attainment of Lira University’s Mission, connect with the vibrant community they are now part of, enjoy the beautiful greenery the campus affords, and take advantage of professional development as well as well-being promoting programmes.
The VC added that the well-being, safety, and professional growth of our staff are priorities. “We are committed to walking this journey with you, and to building an institution that is not only a place of work but a place of inspiration and belonging” he reveals.
Prof. Ogwal Okeng called for respect and trust amongst staff in building a strong team that seeks to contribute to the fulfilment of the University’s Vision and Mission. He adds, “We are all equally important in this university, we cherish team spirit for the university to move in a good direction.”
University Council Chairperson, Mr. David Geoffrey Opio Okello (3rd Left), Vice Chancellor, Bosco Onyik (4th Left), University Bursar Hassan Hagabi (2nd Right) and Assistant University Secretary, Lydia Amongi and Augustine Oyang Atubo, University Secretary (Extreme Left),cut the cake.
In his welcome remarks, Mr.Bosco Onyik, Chairperson Appointments Board, congratulated the new staff upon successfully completing the rigorous process that resulted into their respective appointments. He lauded the Vice Chancellor and University Secretary, for endorsing the induction ceremony with not only budgetary support but also their representations.
He also tasked new staff to take time and appreciate the University Vision, Mission and Objectives, and ensure that they adhere to them.
The University Secretary, Mr. Oyang Atubo urged the new staff to read and understand the various university policies and where in doubt, consult the relevant offices. He advised staff in the fulfilment of their duties and responsibilities not to disregard their individual goals.
Mr. Oyang Atubo noted, “You underwent a tough process full of various competitive stages and we are sure that we have the right people for the various jobs” He encouraged staff to visit the University Policies website and appraise themselves with the details, not only for avoidance of breaching them but also building a culture voluntary compliance.
The University Secretary equally called upon staff to familiarize themselves with the law that establishes and governs public universities; the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act(UOTIA).
Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer, Mr. Albert Apenyo equally encouraged staff to read the Human Resources Manual, and other policies to guide their behaviour at the university.
Topics covered during the two-day induction include; the University Strategic Plan, Financing, Research-led Agenda, Legal Instruments, Human Resources Management and Functions, as well as Policies on Gender Equality and Sexual Harassment. Others include; Academic Issues, Quality Assurance, Procurement, Audit, and Library Resources.
