In a special tribute to the late Rajiv Ruparelia, city tycoon 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 today 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 are meant to honor Rajiv’s memory and continue his legacy of compassion and empowerment through education.
“In remembrance of Rajiv, Sudhir and his wife have offered 100 Master’s Degree scholarships to the top-performing students,” Victoria University Vice Chancellor, Dr. Lawrence Muganga, told the gathering, describing the gesture as a heartfelt investment in the future of Uganda’s youth.
2,500 students received degrees, diplomas, and certificates across various disciplines, including business, engineering, law, education, humanities, and health sciences. The ceremony marked another milestone in Victoria University’s decade-long journey of innovation and excellence since its founding in 2013.
In his keynote address, Dr. Muganga urged graduates to embrace technological change and lifelong learning to remain competitive in a rapidly transforming world.
“A report from the World Economic Forum gives us a clear picture of the future. By 2030, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is expected to create around Shs170 million entirely new jobs and opportunities we have never seen before. At the same time, about 92 million existing jobs are likely to disappear,” he said.
He challenged both educators and students to adapt to this reality, stressing the importance of skills that align with emerging technologies.
“This raises a crucial question: Are we preparing our students for careers that may vanish tomorrow?” Dr. Muganga asked.
He added, “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.”
Dr. Muganga also highlighted the university’s pioneering role in implementing competence-based learning, a model that equips graduates with both knowledge and hands-on skills.
“I have always advocated for competence-based learning as a way to improve our education system,” he noted.
He added, “I am proud that when the call came for all universities to adopt this approach, Victoria University was already ahead of the curve.”
The Vice Chancellor commended the graduates for their resilience and innovation, emphasizing that the combination of digital literacy, creativity, and ethical leadership will define their success in a world shaped by technology.
The Chief Guest, His Royal Highness the Kyabazinga of Busoga, William Wilberforce Nadiope Gabula IV also delivered an inspiring message to the graduates, applauding their academic achievement and urging them to be agents of positive change.
“I am most pleased to commemorate this momentous occasion with nearly 2,000 accomplished young men and women who have distinguished themselves through dedication to academic excellence,” he said.
He commended Victoria University for its growing contribution to higher education and innovation in Uganda.
“This ninth graduation ceremony is not only a significant milestone for our graduates, but also for the journey of Victoria University itself as a beacon of excellence,” the Kyabazinga said.
Reflecting on the global shifts shaping modern life, he called on graduates to embrace innovation and lifelong learning.
“We live in an era defined by rapid technological advancement, digital transformation, and unprecedented global interconnectedness. The world we are graduating into is vastly different from the one that existed when many of you first entered these halls. Innovation has gained momentum and is no longer optional,” he remarked.
He advised the graduates to carry forward the values of integrity, resilience, and curiosity.
“Your degree is not the end of your education. It is just the beginning. The world will continue to change and your relevance will depend on your willingness to grow and learn and relearn. Therefore, stay curious and hungry for knowledge,” he emphasized.
The Kyabazinga further urged them to lead with honor and compassion and also to commit to integrity and ethical leadership.
He noted, “Go forth with courage and compassion. Shape the future, not just for yourselves, but for generations yet unborn. Congratulations once again to the University Class of 2025.”
