Victoria University has marked its 10th graduation ceremony with 2,600 students receiving their qualifications, highlighting the institution’s rapid growth under the broader vision of businessman Dr Sudhir Ruparelia to expand access to higher education in Uganda.
The ceremony took place at Speke Resort Munyonyo in Kampala from October 19 to 20, 2026, celebrating the academic achievements of graduates while showcasing the university’s progress and future ambitions within the country’s higher education sector.
The milestone also reflects the development of an institution associated with Dr Sudhir’s investment portfolio and his contribution to the expansion of private education in Uganda.
Victoria University Vice Chancellor Dr Lawrence Muganga revealed that student enrolment had grown from 180 in 2020 to approximately 16,000 currently.
The number of students graduating has also increased significantly, rising from 48 in 2021 to 2,600 in 2026. The figures highlight the institution’s expanding capacity and the growing number of learners completing its academic programmes.
During the ceremony, Dr Muganga recognised Dr Sudhir Ruparelia and the Ruparelia Group for their contribution to the university’s development.
Their support has accompanied the institution’s efforts to broaden its academic programmes, increase student enrolment and prepare graduates to compete in an increasingly demanding employment market.
Victoria University’s 10th graduation represents more than the awarding of academic qualifications. Each graduating class adds to Uganda’s workforce, producing professionals, entrepreneurs and skilled individuals who can contribute to the country’s economic and social development.
Dr Sudhir’s investment in the education sector reflects the role private investment can play in supporting institutions that develop human capital and create opportunities for future generations.
The university’s expansion also highlights the contribution of private higher education institutions in widening access to tertiary education and providing students with alternative routes to achieving their professional goals.
Technology has become a central part of Victoria University’s future strategy. Dr Muganga said all programmes offered by the institution were now AI-driven, underlining its focus on preparing students for a world increasingly influenced by artificial intelligence.
He also urged the government to introduce a nationwide One Laptop Per Child policy, arguing that access to digital devices would be vital to Uganda’s economic transformation.
The Vice Chancellor further announced that construction of a new Victoria University campus in Naguru, Kampala, was scheduled to begin in January 2027. The proposed development will include a teaching hospital to support the university’s new medical school.
The project is expected to expand the institution’s training facilities and strengthen its capacity to provide professional education, particularly in the medical field.
As Victoria University celebrates its 10th graduation, the 2,600 graduates represent another step in the institution’s development and the beginning of new opportunities for those completing their studies.
For Dr Sudhir Ruparelia, the milestone highlights the potential of private-sector investment to support educational institutions and broaden access to learning.
The increase in enrolment from 180 students in 2020 to approximately 16,000 today provides a measure of the university’s growth, according to figures shared by its leadership.
Looking ahead, maintaining academic standards, promoting research and innovation, and equipping students with skills relevant to the changing employment market will remain important as the institution continues to expand.
The 10th graduation therefore celebrates the achievements of its graduates while marking another stage in Victoria University’s ambition to contribute to Uganda’s educational advancement and economic development.
