Victoria University is set for one of its most significant expansions yet, with Dr Sudhir Ruparelia preparing to invest billions of shillings in the development of a new university campus in Naguru, Kampala.
The ambitious project, which is expected to commence this year, is set to significantly expand Victoria University’s physical footprint while creating a modern environment for learning, innovation, research and student interaction.
The new campus will be located near Phaneroo in Naguru, one of Kampala’s rapidly developing areas, and is expected to become one of the major projects undertaken by the Ruparelia Group under the leadership of Dr Sudhir Ruparelia as the group continues to expand its investments across different sectors of Uganda’s economy.
The development represents a major investment in Uganda’s education sector and reflects Dr Sudhir’s continued interest in supporting the growth of institutions that contribute to human capital development.
Victoria University Vice Chancellor Dr Lawrence Muganga recently unveiled architectural impressions of the proposed campus, giving the public a glimpse of what is expected to become the university’s new home.
The designs feature a contemporary and futuristic architectural concept, prompting Dr Muganga to compare their appearance to images generated using artificial intelligence, although he clarified that they are the actual plans for the proposed development.
“At first glance, you might think someone got a little too creative with AI. But no, these are the actual design impressions of the upcoming Victoria University Kampala, Uganda, campus in the heart of Kampala, Naguru to be exact, close to Phaneroo,” Dr Muganga said.
He confirmed that construction is expected to start this year, signalling the transition of the project from architectural plans to physical development.
“Yes, this is happening, and I am excited to share that work begins this year,” he said.
Dr Muganga said the university community was eager to see the designs become a functional campus where students and staff can learn, interact and build a sense of belonging.
“We cannot wait to see these images become something you can actually walk into, experience, and call home. This one is going to be beautiful,” he said.
A major Ruparelia Group investment
The Naguru campus is expected to rank among the most significant developments associated with Victoria University and will form part of the wider investment portfolio of the Ruparelia Group.
Under Dr Sudhir Ruparelia’s leadership, the group has built a diversified business portfolio with interests spanning hospitality, education, real estate, agriculture, financial services and other sectors.
The Victoria University expansion therefore adds to a series of ongoing investments associated with the Ruparelia Group, while reinforcing Dr Sudhir’s contribution to Uganda’s private-sector development and investment landscape.
The planned campus is also expected to strengthen the university’s capacity to accommodate a growing student population and provide facilities suited to its focus on modern, technology-driven and practical education.
Expanding Uganda’s education landscape
Victoria University has increasingly positioned itself as a modern and cosmopolitan institution, emphasising innovation, technology, practical learning and programmes designed to respond to changing workplace demands.
Accredited by the National Council for Higher Education, the university attracts students from Uganda and other countries, creating a diverse academic environment.
Its existing main campus is located at Victoria Towers on Jinja Road in Kampala, a central location with access to public transport and parking facilities.
The planned Naguru development is expected to complement the existing campus while giving the institution additional space to expand its academic programmes, student services and other activities.
The project also comes at a time when Uganda is seeking greater private-sector participation in the expansion of quality education and development of infrastructure capable of supporting the country’s growing population of students and professionals.
With billions of shillings expected to be committed to the development, the Naguru campus will represent a substantial investment by Dr Sudhir Ruparelia and the Ruparelia Group in the future of education in Uganda.
Beyond the physical infrastructure, the project is expected to further strengthen Victoria University’s identity as an institution focused on innovation, technology and practical education.
For Dr Sudhir Ruparelia and the Ruparelia Group, the investment adds another major project to their expanding portfolio, while for Victoria University, the Naguru campus marks a new chapter in its growth and ambition to provide a modern learning environment for students in Uganda and beyond.
