Our History
In The Beginning
St John Paul II College Gulu (SJPC) opened on 20 March 2000 as Pope John Paul II College Gulu with an enrollment of only five students (two girls and three boys) and eight teaching staff.
The school retained this name until, following the canonization of Pope John Paul II in 2014, the Archbishop of Gulu instructed us to change the name to reflect the status of our patron. Hence in July 2017 the Ministry of Education and Sports (MOES) officially changed the college’s name to St. John Paul II College Gulu(SJPC).
The humble beginnings of SJPC started as a dream in1993 when the founding family recognized the need for quality secondary school in our Region. Initial construction works started at the site at Laliya, five kilometers north of Gulu, in 1997 culminating with the opening of the school in the year 2000.The A’ level component of the school opened in the year in 2006.
The Last 22 years
During the last 14 years (2008 – 2022), St. John Paul II College Gulu grew dramatically. Student enrollment went up from the paltry five in 2000 to over 900 students while the number of teaching staff grew to over 50.
The total number of classrooms has increased from eight to nineteen while the number of dormitories grew from two to seven. A fully equipped science laboratory is now in place. In addition, two well equipped computer laboratories, a library and a new staff room block were constructed together with an Examination Hall that seats up to 300 candidates. A new Dining Hall with a capacity to accommodate up to 1000 students is currently in the final stages of construction. On his last pastoral visit to the College in March this year, the Archbishop of Gulu laid the foundation of a new dormitory for girls which is now at roofing stage.
We have also upgraded our games and sports facilities including paving the basketball court.
The campus land has expanded from the initial 20 acres to over 50 acres. Lush planting of trees and decorative plant species underscore our enthusiasm for environment protection.
Academics
St. John Paul II College Gulu has a strong tradition of academic excellence. Over 40% (the target for 2022 is 55%) of our A level students annually obtain the maximum 03 principal passes in the UACE examination while up to 80% quality for university entrance. In O level our first grade/passes in the UCE examinations have steadily increased from 10% to 30% (2022 target is 40%) of the class. At St. John Paul II College Gulu, we have a great reputation for the many opportunities for personal development of our students who enjoy vibrant programmes of clubs, sports, expeditions/field trips, and other co-curricular activities.
Conclusion
St. John Paul II College Gulu has strived in the last 22 years. The college continues to live up to its founding mission of excellence in academic performance and holistic education. These resolves shall continue to drive and inspire us to meet the challenging needs of our youth in the years to come.
