A lion of labor, heart so wide,
With vision clear and noble stride,
Rajiv, you walked where few would dare,
A builder bold, beyond compare.
With mind attuned to systems’ grace,
You shaped a strong, enduring place- our VU.
You forged the rules, but with a heart—
Where justice lived and played its part.
Compassion burned within your soul,
Though firm your hand, you made us whole.
You listened deep, you cared with might,
And led us always toward the light.
No task too small, no dream too grand,
You built with both your heart and hands.
Hardworking, yes—each dawn you rose,
To meet the world, its highs and lows.
Yet stern you stood when truth was tried,
And honored all the laws with pride.
You taught us structure, strength, and grace,
With policies none could replace.
A mentor, guide, employer too,
Who saw the best in all you knew.
You held us high, but kept us near,
With leadership both strict yet kind and clear.
When I was personally drenched in grief
You advised me to always remember
That every wound must heal
You advised me to remain strong and safe.
Now, Rajiv, can I dare give this same advice
To those you have left behind!
No, I can only share this advice with them to know
One of your perspectives on life and death –that every wound must heal
Now though you rest, your spirit stays,
In lives you touched in countless ways.
Rajiv, your legacy is vast—
A beacon bright, forever cast – Adieu
By M. G. Katusabe – Ssemwezi
University Secretary, Victoria University, Kampala
