Criteria to apply for 100 Rajiv scholarship

CAPTION: Left to right: Victoria University directors Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, his wife Jyotsna Ruparelia and Vice Chancellor Dr Lawrence Muganga during a recent graduation of the university. (Courtesy photo).

By Stephen Wandera Ouma

KAMPALA – Victoria University has kick off the anticipated Rajiv Memorial Scholarship programme in memory of the late Rajiv Ruperelia.

The late son of businessman Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, died in a car accident on May 3, 2025, aged 35. He was known for promoting youth empowerment and innovation.

According to a notice from the Office of the Vice Chancellor, the 100 fully funded master’s scholarship from the Ruperelia Family under the Ruparelia Foundation starts this year.

A notice calling for applications published on Wednesday July 15^th, 2026 gave detailed criteria for the applicants.

“You must be a bachelor’s degree graduate of Victoria University from class of 2025, demonstrate outstanding academic performance, good conduct and proven academia leadership. You must be holding an admission letter or be eligible for admission into a Victoria University Master’s programme, be willing to serve as a Research or Tutorial Assistant supporting Work Integrated Learning each trimester,” it further reads.

Adding, “You must have a clean disciplinary record, with no history of examination malpractice or formal warnings and meet the application, registration and functional fees.”

Regarding academic merit, “You must have a minimum CGPA of 4.3, second upper of above to be considered. Priority is given to applicants with strong final year research conference presentations or innovation projects. You must also show proven leadership and character through student leadership, clubs, entrepreneurship, volunteerism and community service. You must present a recommendation letter from Dean or Head of Department confirming your leadership ability and integrity.”

The notice indicates, selection is guided by transparency, fairness and accountability under the university approved framework.

“Successful scholars agree to the following: Maintain the required CGPA of at least a second class upper, attend all seminars, workshops and graduate training sessions. Participate in mentorship, outreach and innovation activities. Submit progress reports at the end of every trimester and sign a contract.”

The notice also indicates, an ward may be terminated on grounds that include poor academic performance, academic misconduct, plagiarism, criminal behaviour, extended absenteeism or breach of university policies.

It also conditions, a student must complete their programmes in two academic years and submit a dissertation of publishable quality.

“Victoria University is committed to equitable implementation, we will give due attention to gender balance, support students with disability and to fair representation across all faculties,” it reads.

For one to apply, should have the official application form, Victoria University admission letter, academic documents, an updated CV, a personal statement and a recommendation letter.