The Universitätsgesellschaft Oldenburg e.V. (UGO) was founded on 26 April 1972, one and a half years earlier than the university itself.

The UGO sees itself as a bridge between the university and the north-west region and, with almost 1,000 members, is one of the largest university societies in Germany.

Especially in the early years, when the local population eyed a "reform university" with scepticism, the UGO played an important role as a mediator. It promotes the exchange between science, business and society and thus strengthens cohesion in Oldenburg and throughout the north-west.

Together with the university, the association organises the New Year's reception in the State Theatre and the "kick-off" event at the beginning of the winter semester in the Audimax. The UGO also awards prizes for special academic achievements and supports researchers, teachers and, in particular, young academics at the university through targeted programmes.