Meera Ruparelia Steps Into Victoria University Council, Carrying Forward A Brother’s Legacy

By Gad Masereka

Victoria University has appointed Ms. Meera Ruparelia as the new Representative of the
Directors to the University Council, signalling a significant moment of continuity and transition
for one of Uganda’s emerging private universities.

The appointment, confirmed in a press statement dated April 16, 2026, comes months after the passing of her brother, Rajiv Ruparelia, who had served in the same capacity and whose influence on the institution remains deeply felt.

Meera was formally sworn into office in a ceremony at the university, attended by senior
management including Vice Chancellor Dr. Lawrence Muganga. The event carried a weight of
emotion and purpose, drawing attention not just to a leadership change but to the enduring spirit of a family that has been central to Victoria University’s growth. It was Dr. Muganga who opened the occasion with a tribute to Rajiv, acknowledging the extent to which the late director had shaped the institution’s academic ethos.
“Rajiv’s vision transformed not just an institution, but the entire approach to modern education in Uganda. His legacy remains deeply embedded in everything we do,” Dr. Muganga said, his
words capturing the sense of gratitude and responsibility that pervaded the gathering.

For Meera, stepping into a role previously held by her brother is both personal and professional. Speaking at the ceremony, she did not shy away from the gravity of the moment, acknowledging it openly while channelling her remarks toward the future.
“It is both an honour and a responsibility to step into this role. I am committed to upholding the
values of innovation, resilience and practical learning that have defined Victoria University,” she said. She went on to outline her strategic focus, emphasising the need for the university to stay relevant in a world reshaped by technology and the demands of a global economy.

“Our focus is to ensure that Victoria University remains at the forefront of the Fourth Industrial
Revolution by bridging the gap between academia and industry,” Meera added, a statement that drew parallels to the academic direction Rajiv had championed during his tenure.

University management expressed confidence in her appointment, framing it as both a
stabilising and forward-looking decision. Dr. Muganga reiterated the institution’s intent to
deepen its industry-driven education model, describing the appointment as a moment not just of succession but of renewed ambition.
“With this appointment, we are not just maintaining continuity, we are strengthening our resolve
to innovate, grow and lead,” he noted.

Victoria University, which has built its reputation on experiential and technology-focused
learning, has in recent years expanded its academic offerings and attracted a growing student
body drawn by its practical approach to higher education. The appointment of Meera Ruparelia
to the University Council is widely seen within the institution as a vote of confidence in that
trajectory, with the new director expected to guide governance decisions at a critical stage in the university’s development.

Her appointment comes at a period of notable activity for Victoria University, which in the same
week received accreditation to offer a Bachelor of Pharmacy programme, adding another
dimension to its growing health sciences portfolio. Together, the two developments paint a
picture of an institution pressing forward with intent, even as it honours the memory of those
who helped lay its foundations.