Victoria University has unveiled a new scholarship initiative that will provide 100 fully sponsored Master’s degree opportunities to exceptional members of its 2025 graduating class, in tribute to the late Rajiv Ruparelia and his lasting contribution to education, leadership and youth empowerment.
The Rajiv Memorial Scholarships Programme, financed by the Ruparelia Family through the Ruparelia Family Foundation, is reserved for the university’s highest-achieving graduates. The initiative aims to support talented young professionals as they pursue postgraduate studies while developing the skills needed to become future leaders, innovators and researchers.
In an announcement released by the Office of the Vice Chancellor, the university described the programme as a long-term investment in Uganda’s future, emphasizing that it seeks to promote academic excellence, impactful research and leadership development.
According to the university, the scholarships honour Rajiv Ruparelia’s legacy, which it said was characterised by a commitment to excellence, service and visionary leadership. The institution noted that recipients will be encouraged to undertake research that contributes to national development and strengthens Uganda’s knowledge-based economy.
Applications are open exclusively to graduates from Victoria University’s Class of 2025 who demonstrated exceptional academic performance during their undergraduate studies. Candidates must either have secured admission or qualify for admission into one of the university’s Master’s programmes.
In addition to pursuing their postgraduate studies, successful applicants will serve as Research or Tutorial Assistants through Victoria University’s Work Integrated Learning programme during each academic trimester, allowing them to gain practical teaching and research experience.
To be considered, applicants must have maintained a good disciplinary record and be prepared to pay the required application, registration, functional and Learning Management System (LMS) fees.
The university stated that applicants must have attained a minimum cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 4.3, equivalent to at least a Second Class Upper Division. Preference will be given to graduates who distinguished themselves through strong final-year research projects, innovation initiatives or participation in academic conferences.
Beyond academic achievement, the programme also values leadership and community engagement. Candidates with a proven record of leadership in student organisations, entrepreneurship, volunteer activities or community service will receive added consideration.
Applicants are required to submit recommendation letters from their Dean or Head of Department confirming both their leadership potential and personal integrity.
Students selected for the scholarships will be expected to maintain strong academic performance throughout their studies by achieving at least a Second Class Upper CGPA. They will also be required to participate in seminars, workshops, graduate training sessions, mentorship programmes and innovation activities, while submitting progress reports at the end of every trimester.
Each beneficiary will be required to sign a Rajiv Memorial Scholarships agreement outlining the terms and responsibilities associated with the award.
The university cautioned that scholarship recipients risk losing the award if they fail to meet academic standards or are found guilty of academic dishonesty, plagiarism, criminal conduct, prolonged absenteeism or violations of university regulations.
The scholarships will be offered during the July/August 2026 intake, with recipients expected to complete their Master’s degrees within two academic years and produce dissertations of publishable academic quality.
Victoria University said the selection process will be guided by fairness, transparency and equal opportunity, with attention given to gender balance, representation of persons with disabilities and equitable participation from all academic faculties.
Prospective applicants must submit a completed application form, an admission letter to a Victoria University Master’s programme, certified academic transcripts, an updated curriculum vitae, a personal statement and a recommendation letter.
The deadline for submitting applications has been set for July 22, 2026.
The Rajiv Memorial Scholarships Programme was established to preserve Rajiv Ruparelia’s legacy by creating opportunities for outstanding graduates to advance their education, strengthen their leadership abilities and contribute meaningfully to Uganda’s future through research, innovation and public service.
