GULU UGANDA: Gulu University has suspended its Dean of Students, Dr Stella Amero Eduan, after an internal audit reportedly uncovered alleged financial irregularities involving Shs214 million meant for student-related activities.

The suspension, issued for three months, was announced in a circular dated April 21, 2026, by university secretary David Obol Otori. The action followed recommendations made during the 13th sitting of the institution’s audit and risk management committee on April 17.

According to the circular, the committee examined audit reports concerning both the university medical unit and the Dean of Students’ office. The findings reportedly raised concerns about financial management practices and compliance with laid-down procedures in the dean’s office.

The audit is said to have identified a number of questionable transactions, including missing payment documents, funds allegedly processed for official duties and deposited onto Dr Amero’s account, and cash expenditures totalling Shs214 million tied to student affairs.

Investigators also pointed to irregular payments worth Shs87 million for guild activities, as well as Shs6.6 million allegedly paid to non-existent beneficiaries.

Additional concerns included lack of approved rates for student allowances, improper procurement and cash-handling procedures, and failure to implement approved work plans despite funds having been released.

The report further cited failure to distribute allowances intended for students with disabilities under the office’s care, a matter the committee reportedly viewed seriously.

Based on the findings, the committee recommended immediate investigations. Citing provisions of the Public Finance Management Act and the university human resource manual, management ordered Dr Amero’s suspension with immediate effect.

She was instructed to hand over all university property in her possession. During the suspension period, she will receive half of her basic salary and will not be allowed to access her office or perform duties attached to the position.

University spokesperson James Ojok Onono confirmed the development, saying two other officials were also suspended, though he did not reveal their identities.

However, reports indicate the affected officials include a pharmacy technician in the medical unit and an accountant attached to the Dean of Students’ department.

Onono said the university would refrain from commenting further while investigations are ongoing, noting that all those involved remain innocent until proven otherwise.

Speaking briefly on the matter, Dr Amero said she was ready to cooperate with investigators. She neither admitted nor denied the allegations, referring all further questions to the university administration.