By David Mwanje
Victoria University has awarded 100 fully funded Master’s scholarships in memory of the late Rajiv Ruparelia, the former Managing Director of the institution. The announcement was made during the university’s 9th graduation ceremony held at Speke Resort Munyonyo, where 2,029 students graduated with degrees, diplomas, and certificates under the theme “Shaping the Future: Innovation, Digitality, and Employability.”
The scholarships, launched by the Ruparelia Foundation, aim to support top-performing graduates who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership, and community commitment. Each bursary will cover full tuition for Master’s programs across business, technology, and social sciences.
Rajiv Ruparelia, son of businessman Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, died in a car accident on May 3, 2025, aged 35. He was known for promoting youth empowerment and innovation. Dr. Sudhir, accompanied by his wife Jyotsna Ruparelia and son-in-law Jay Sakaria, said the scholarships were a continuation of Rajiv’s vision to make education accessible and practical.
“These bursaries are not donations but investments in building a stronger society,” Dr. Sudhir said, describing Rajiv as a young man who believed education was the best way to secure Uganda’s future.
The event was attended by His Majesty William Wilberforce Gabula Nadiope IV, the Kyabazinga of Busoga, who was the Chief Guest. He commended the Ruparelia Foundation for supporting education and urged graduates to uphold Rajiv’s values of excellence and service. The Kyabazinga’s presence also reflected ongoing cooperation between Victoria University and the Busoga Kingdom, which has seen students from the region benefit from similar scholarships.
University Chancellor Prof. John Opuda-Asibo led a moment of silence in memory of Rajiv and other departed staff. He described Rajiv as a leader who valued hard work and innovation. Vice Chancellor Dr. Lawrence Muganga urged graduates to stay adaptable and continue learning to meet the changing demands of the job market. He said the university’s focus on practical training has enabled many graduates to secure employment before completing their studies.
During the ceremony, the Kyabazinga launched a book titled “You’re the Bigger Picture: Frame It Well,” by graduate Linda Musime Rosette, which guides young people on personal growth and purpose.
Among the graduates was Ampaire Amon Buteega, a journalist with the Uganda Broadcasting Corporation, who received a Master of Arts in Mass Communication. He thanked his family and colleagues for supporting him and encouraged fellow journalists to pursue further studies.
Founded in 2012, the Ruparelia Foundation supports projects in education, health, and environmental conservation. The new bursary program expands its education initiatives and continues Rajiv’s legacy of empowering young Ugandans.
