During Victoria University’s ninth graduation ceremony, Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia announced one hundred full Master’s scholarships for outstanding Ugandan students. The initiative, dedicated to his late son Rajiv Ruparelia, focuses on promoting innovation, digital skills, and employability among young graduates.
The announcement took place at the Speke Resort Munyonyo during a ceremony where more than 2,500 degrees were awarded. The scholarship program celebrates Rajiv’s lasting legacy in education and his passion for empowering young people.
Rajiv Ruparelia, who passed away in May 2025 at the age of thirty-five, played a key role in transforming Victoria University into a leading center for African talent. As a strategist and philanthropist, he supported affordable higher education and helped shape the university’s direction since its founding in 2013.
Standing on stage beside his wife Jyotsna in academic regalia, Dr. Ruparelia spoke with deep emotion. “These scholarships embody Rajiv’s unyielding passion for nurturing tomorrow’s leaders. May they carry his spirit forward,” he said. His words received a standing ovation from graduates and families gathered for the ceremony.
This new initiative continues the Ruparelia Foundation’s tradition of philanthropy, which has included tuition relief of up to sixty percent during the COVID-19 pandemic and more than one thousand previous scholarships. With Uganda’s youth employment rate still low and only about twenty-three percent working in formal jobs according to the 2023 World Bank report, the program aims to close important skills gaps and support Vision 2040 goals for a modern digital economy.
Victoria University Vice Chancellor Dr. Lawrence Muganga described the scholarship pledge as “a profound act of remembrance and forward momentum.” The chief guest, His Majesty William Wilberforce Gabula Nadiope IV, praised the Ruparelia family’s strength and urged graduates to use their education to innovate and contribute to their communities.
The graduation took place under the theme “Shaping the Future: Innovation, Digitality and Employability.” The event combined celebration with reflection and included an emotional video tribute to Rajiv Ruparelia.
Applications for the new scholarships will open soon through Victoria University’s online portal and will be awarded based on merit. As confetti filled the air over the Class of 2025, Rajiv’s vision for education and opportunity continued to shine brightly, inspiring a new generation of Ugandan scholars to learn, lead, and serve with purpose.
