The Vice Chancellor of Victoria University, Prof. Lawrence Muganga, has expressed deep appreciation to Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia and his family for their warmth and compassion following the death of his mother, Mama Immaculate Kayonga.
Mama Kayonga passed away on December 21, 2025, leaving Prof. Muganga and his family in mourning. During this difficult time, the Ruparelia family paid a condolence visit to personally comfort him and share in his grief.
Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia was joined by his wife Jyotsna Ruparelia, their daughter Sheena Ruparelia, and son-in-law Jay Sakaria. Their presence, according to Prof. Muganga, brought him strength and emotional comfort when he needed it most.
In a deeply emotional message, Prof. Muganga said the visit went beyond formality and touched him personally. He described the family’s gesture as sincere and uplifting, adding that their kindness spoke directly to his heart. He openly thanked them for standing with him as both colleagues and family during a painful chapter of his life.
Mama Immaculate Kayonga was laid to rest in Gwafu-Seeta, Mukono District. Prof. Muganga has often spoken about the powerful influence his mother had on his life. He described her as the foundation of his character and values, saying she taught him faith, humility, compassion, and the importance of serving others selflessly. He credited her love for people and deep spirituality for shaping his journey as an educator and leader.
The condolence visit also reflected the close relationship between the Ruparelia family and Victoria University. As founders and long-time supporters of the institution, the family has consistently shown concern for the wellbeing of staff and the wider university community, not only through leadership but also through personal connection.
Following news of the visit, many people from Uganda’s education sector, including students, academic colleagues, partners, and friends, sent messages of encouragement and sympathy to Prof. Muganga. Many praised the Ruparelia family for demonstrating genuine care and humanity.
The gesture has been widely viewed as a reminder of the power of compassion during times of loss. Beyond offering comfort to a grieving son, it highlighted shared values of empathy, unity, and respect that continue to shape relationships within Uganda’s higher education community.
