Dr Sudhir Ruparelia Honours Late Son Rajiv With 100 Full Scholarships At Victoria University’s 9th Graduation

By Frank Kamuntu 

Victoria University Uganda has today held its 9th Graduation Ceremony at the Speke Resort Convention Centre in Munyonyo, marking a grand celebration of academic excellence, innovation, and growth.

The colorful event, themed “Shaping the Future: Innovation, Digitality, and Employability,” attracted over 250,000 graduands who proudly received degrees, diplomas, and certificates in various disciplines. It was a defining moment for the university as it continues its mission to produce competent and innovative professionals ready to thrive in the modern job market.

Sudhir’s Generous Gift Of Education

The highlight of the ceremony was a moving gesture from Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, the Founder and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Victoria University, who announced 100 full scholarships for the best students from this year’s graduating class.

The scholarships, dedicated to the memory of his late son Rajiv Ruparelia, will enable outstanding graduates to pursue Master’s degrees at Victoria University free of charge.

The announcement followed an emotional tribute to the late Rajiv, who served as a Director of the University and played a pivotal role in advancing youth empowerment and education. The touching performance featured Fresh Kid, Pastor Wilson Bugembe, Karole Kasita, Felista Da Superstar, the popular duo Kataleya and Kandle, among others leaving many in attendance visibly moved.

Dr. Sudhir’s decision to offer 100 full scholarships in memory of his late son touched many hearts and reaffirmed Victoria University’s position as a beacon of hope and opportunity for Uganda’s youth.

The gesture symbolizes not only a father’s love and remembrance but also a firm belief in the transformative power of education.

A Legacy Of Educational Impact

In his address, Vice Chancellor Dr. Lawrence Muganga praised Dr. Sudhir and the Ruparelia family for their unwavering support and visionary leadership that has transformed Victoria University into one of Uganda’s most innovative higher education institutions.

“Dr. Sudhir has continued to invest not only in infrastructure but also in people,” Dr. Muganga said. “His heart for education and for Uganda’s youth is unmatched. The university and the nation have greatly benefited from his vision.”

Dr. Muganga also took a moment to recognize the lasting impact of the late Rajiv Ruparelia, describing him as a passionate advocate for practical learning and digital transformation.

Distinguished Guests & Royal Presence

The ceremony was presided over by His Majesty William Wilberforce Gabula Nadiope IV, the Kyabazinga of Busoga, who served as Chief Guest. He commended Victoria University for its commitment to producing graduates who are not only employable but also capable of shaping Uganda’s future through innovation and integrity.

Also in attendance were Ms. Jyotsna Ruparelia, Dr. Sudhir’s wife, and their son-in-law Jay Sakaria, who serves as Vice Chairperson of the University Council. The event drew senior government officials, industry leaders, and members of the academic community from across Uganda and beyond.

Victoria University’s Growing Legacy

Founded in 2013, Victoria University has steadily grown into one of Uganda’s leading private institutions of higher learning, offering programs in business, engineering, humanities, law, education, and health sciences.

Through its strong focus on technology-driven and competency-based education, the university continues to prepare graduates who are ready to compete and succeed in a fast-changing global economy.

This year’s graduation theme, “Shaping the Future: Innovation, Digitality, and Employability,” reflected the university’s vision of empowering students with skills that meet the demands of the modern workplace while nurturing creativity, ethics, and leadership.