In an emotional tribute to their late son, Rajiv Ruparelia, renowned business mogul Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia and his wife Jyotsna have announced 100 full Master’s Degree scholarships to outstanding graduates of Victoria University.
The announcement was made during the university’s 9th Graduation Ceremony held on Saturday at the Speke Resort Convention Centre, Munyonyo, under the theme “Shaping the Future: Innovation, Digitality, and Employability.”
Representing the Ruparelia Foundation, the couple said the scholarships were created to honor Rajiv’s memory and extend his legacy of compassion, empowerment, and dedication to education.
“In remembrance of Rajiv, Sudhir and his wife have offered 100 Master’s Degree scholarships to the top-performing students,” said Dr. Lawrence Muganga, the Vice Chancellor of Victoria University, describing the gesture as a “heartfelt investment in the future of Uganda’s youth.”
2,500 Graduates Celebrate Academic Milestones
This year’s ceremony saw 2,500 students graduate with degrees, diplomas, and certificates across a broad range of disciplines, including business, engineering, law, education, humanities, and health sciences.
Since its establishment in 2013, Victoria University has positioned itself as a leader in innovative, digitally driven, and skills-based higher education.
“Prepare for the Future” — Dr. Muganga
In his keynote address, Dr. Muganga challenged graduates to embrace the technological revolution transforming the global job market.
Citing a report from the World Economic Forum, he noted that by 2030, Artificial Intelligence (AI) will create over 170 million new jobs, while approximately 92 million existing jobs will become obsolete.
“This raises a crucial question: Are we preparing our students for careers that may vanish tomorrow?” he asked.
Dr. Muganga reaffirmed Victoria University’s commitment to preparing students for the future, noting that every learner receives free AI training as part of their academic journey.
“At Victoria University, we have chosen a different path. Every one of our students receives AI training for free so they are prepared to excel in the future,” he said.
He also highlighted the institution’s pioneering use of competence-based learning, a system designed to merge academic theory with practical skills that meet real-world demands.
“I am proud that when the call came for all universities to adopt this approach, Victoria University was already ahead of the curve,” he added.
The Kyabazinga’s Message: “Lead with Integrity and Compassion”
The event’s Chief Guest, His Royal Highness William Wilberforce Nadiope Gabula IV, the Kyabazinga of Busoga, delivered a moving speech that encouraged graduates to embrace change, innovation, and lifelong learning.
“We live in an era defined by rapid technological advancement and digital transformation. The world you are graduating into is vastly different from the one that existed when you first joined the university,” the Kyabazinga said.
He urged graduates to remain curious and resilient in a world that continues to evolve.
“Your degree is not the end of your education — it is just the beginning. Your relevance will depend on your willingness to grow, learn, and relearn,” he emphasized.
The Kyabazinga also commended Victoria University for its growing impact on higher education in Uganda, calling it “a beacon of academic excellence and innovation.”
Honoring Rajiv’s Legacy
The scholarships in Rajiv Ruparelia’s honor drew emotional applause from the audience. Known for his passion for youth empowerment and philanthropy, Rajiv’s memory continues to inspire new initiatives that promote education and social transformation.
As the graduation ceremony concluded, students, staff, and guests reflected on a day that celebrated not just academic achievement but also compassion, innovation, and the enduring power of education to transform lives.
