Victoria University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Lawrence Muganga, has conveyed heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia and his family for the compassion and support they showed him following the passing of his mother, Mama Immaculate Kayonga.
Mama Kayonga died on December 21, 2025, plunging Prof. Muganga and his family into a period of deep sorrow. In a show of solidarity and care, the Ruparelia family made a personal condolence visit to stand with him during this painful moment.
Dr. Ruparelia was accompanied by his wife, Jyotsna Ruparelia, their daughter Sheena Ruparelia, and son-in-law Jay Sakaria. Prof. Muganga noted that their presence offered him emotional strength and comfort at a time when it was most needed.
In an emotional tribute, Prof. Muganga said the visit was far more than a formal gesture. He described it as genuine, heartfelt, and deeply moving, explaining that the family’s kindness resonated with him on a personal level. He thanked them for standing by him not just as professional partners, but as family during a moment of profound loss.
Mama Immaculate Kayonga was laid to rest in Gwafu-Seeta, Mukono District. Prof. Muganga has often spoken of his mother’s immense influence on his life, describing her as the cornerstone of his values and character. He credits her with instilling in him strong principles of faith, humility, compassion, and service to others qualities that continue to guide his work as an educator and leader.
The condolence visit also underscored the strong bond between the Ruparelia family and Victoria University. As founders and long-time patrons of the institution, they have consistently demonstrated care for staff and the wider university community, extending their support beyond leadership roles to meaningful personal engagement.
News of the visit prompted an outpouring of sympathy and encouragement from across Uganda’s education sector. Students, academics, partners, and friends sent messages of support to Prof. Muganga, with many commending the Ruparelia family for their humanity and empathy.
The gesture has been widely seen as a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion in moments of grief. Beyond consoling a bereaved son, it reflected shared values of unity, respect, and empathy that continue to strengthen relationships within Uganda’s higher education community.
