By Patrick Opio
Senior Communications Officer
“Today, we gather in this office to celebrate a true leader and dedicated colleague. Throughout his tenure, the University Secretary, Mr. Augustine, has been a beacon of resilience, integrity, and exceptional service”, Acting Vice Chancellor, Dr. Andrew Ojulong, said during the handover and takeover meeting on 30th June 2026.
Mr. Oyang Atubo, whose 10-year service at the university ends on 30th June, 2026, handed over the office to the Deputy Chief Planner, Mr. Atim Tom as Caretaker University Secretary.
Beyond the daily operations, Dr. Ojulong said, Mr. Oyang Atubo will be remembered for championing a spirit of teamwork and fostering an environment where everyone could thrive.
Also importantly, everyone who spoke, praised the substantive Vice Chancellor, Prof. Jasper Ogwal Okeng for being a strong tested leader, team builder, peacemaker, selfless and focused person. “Prof. Ogwal Okeng has touched many lives positively, a role model, a mentor and always very happy to see staff growing academically and being promoted,” some of the praises heaped on Prof. Ogwal Okeng during the meeting.
Dr. Ojulong also praised the outgoing University Bursar, Mr. Hasahya Nathan Hagobi and Dean of Students, Ms Emma Aceng, saying, “We deeply appreciate the sacrifices made and the challenges successfully navigated under your command.”
“The out-going Officers are leaving behind a solid foundation, an unblemished record of leadership, and a legacy we will strive to uphold. Thank you for your profound impact, and we wish you the absolute best in your next chapter,” the Acting VC said amidst applause from audience.
Highlighting their dedication, shared achievements, and leadership legacy, Mr. Oyang Atubo lauded Prof. Ogwal Okeng for his professional behaviours, integrity and personal warmth that has led to the positive impact on the university steadfast development.
“Prof. Ogwal Okeng and a few of us started Lira University from scratch, bushes….we worked very hard, making connections, lobbying for financial and other supports from Government and partners nationally and globally to build this young university,” Mr. Oyang Atubo said.
On dedication and service, Mr. Nathan Hagobi commended Mr. Oyang Atubo and the staff in Finance department, highlighting their resilience through challenges and long-standing commitment to the institution.
“For these years, since the university started in 2016, the Auditor General Team found our financial transactions clean, there has been unqualified opinions, meaning our performances have been good. This is as a result of team spirit and transparency among all staff,” he said.
On integrity and professionalism, Mr. Nathan Hagobi underscored honesty, and the high ethical standards they maintained while making tough decisions. “We cherish sacrifice, when we started the university, we would at times do without allowances for the sake of seeing a steady growth of the young university,” he said
Mr. Atim Tom promised to promote teamwork and mentorship while in the new office. He urged departments and faculties to emphasize collaborative spirit, foster unity, and their willingness to guide incoming or junior staff.
Mr. Elem Anthony, the incoming Acting Bursar, also substantive Deputy Bursar said the Finance Team will always balance transparency and accountability with forward-looking financial stability of the university.
Mr. Opok James Bond, the Acting Dean of Students said their office is the primary liaison between the student body and university administration, overseeing student welfare, discipline, guild governance, sports, and counseling services. He commended his predecessor, Ms Emma Aceng, for mentorship and cordial working relationship during her 10-year tenure in office.
