The University of the Free State (UFS) has honoured Dr Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, offering an honorary doctorate at its winter graduation ceremony on 7 June. The university stated that this recognition of the former deputy president was due to her outstanding leadership ethos in education, and contributions to human rights and gender equality.
The university awarded Mlambo-Ngcuka the Doctor of Philosophy in Education (honoris causa) honorary degree, in recognition of her lifetime achievements. Her attainments have had a profound impact on the country and the world, the university stated.
The coveted award is presented in recognition of individuals who have made significant contributions to their field or society through their generous and altruistic actions.
“Dr Mlambo-Ngcuka’s achievements are a testament to her dedication to promoting education, human rights, and gender equality. Dr Mlambo-Ngcuka possesses exceptional leadership qualities, which have inspired countless individuals across the country and globally. We salute you for always exemplifying the kind of leadership qualities we need to take our country, our region, and our world forward,” said Prof. Francis Petersen, vice-chancellor and principal of the UFS.
In her acceptance speech as the former and first woman deputy president, Mlambo-Ngcuka expressed great gratitude to the university in recognising her.
“I am deeply grateful to the UFS, and proud to be honoured by an institution of immense credibility and high standards by bestowing such an accolade on me.”
She served as deputy president of South Africa from 2004 to 2008, as the first woman to hold the influential position.
Mlambo-Ngcuka remarked that the timing of the award was significant, tying in with the recent historic elections in South Africa having far-reaching implications for the country’s future. She has emphasised the importance of creating a government that addresses the nation’s pressing problems, including inequality, insecurity, poverty and gender inequality.
“The opportunity to receive this honour is an encouragement for me to continue to avail myself for problem solving and to work for a better life in the communities, especially with regards to access to quality education, which is a right for every citizen,” said Mlambo-Ngcuka.
She also called on those who care about education to unite for better education and to address the gaps in this sector that still exist in the country.
