ATTENTION: NEWS EDITORS
MEDIA ADVISORY
For immediate release
Wednesday, 26 February 2025
He was incarcerated for 10 years on Robben Island for various liberation struggle activities, and, after playing a significant role in the trade union movement, rose to leading positions in the ANC. He ultimately served as South Africa’s third president after Nelson Mandela and Thabo Mbeki, a position that highlighted his statesmanship, intellect and commitment towards social justice.
Now, for his illustrious contribution to the establishment and entrenchment of democracy in South Africa, Kgalema Motlanthe is due to receive a distinguished honour. He is among the exceptional individuals that the University of Johannesburg (UJ) will confer honorary doctorates upon during its 2025 graduation ceremonies, coinciding with its 20-year celebrations. These distinguished individuals exemplify UJ’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and societal impact and transformation. The honorary doctoral degrees recognise individuals whose work has significantly advanced knowledge, public life, and social progress. Through their leadership, advocacy, and groundbreaking contributions, they have demonstrated a dedication to making a lasting difference in the world we live in.
The recipients of Honorary Doctorates are as follows:
Former President of South Africa – Kgalema Motlanthe
His Excellency Kgalema Motlanthe is a respected statesman known for his commitment to democracy, governance, and social justice. Throughout his career, he has worked to advance economic and political reforms, championing the principles of equality and development. His leadership has left an enduring mark on South Africa’s democratic progress.
Ms Antjie Krog
An acclaimed Afrikaans poet, author, journalist, and academic, Antjie Krog has played a profound role in shaping South Africa’s literary and socio-political landscape. Through her poetry, translations, and journalism, she has given voice to critical moments in the nation’s history, including her groundbreaking reporting on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Her works, which have been translated into multiple languages, continue to challenge and inspire discourse on identity, justice, and transformation. A recipient of numerous international and national literary and human rights awards, Krog has left an indelible mark on literature, journalism, and scholarship. Her commitment to breaking linguistic and cultural barriers, as well as her role in fostering new conversations in South Africa and beyond, makes her a deserving recipient of this honorary doctorate.
Sister Abegail Ntleko
A globally recognised humanitarian, Sister Abegail Ntleko has devoted her life to serving vulnerable communities, particularly orphans and children affected by HIV/AIDS. As a trained nurse, she has received numerous accolades for her selfless service, including the Unsung Hero Award from His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Through her tireless work, she has provided health care, education, and hope to countless individuals, embodying the values of compassion and resilience.
Ms Barbara Masekela
A renowned poet, academic, and diplomat, Barbara Masekela has played a crucial role in shaping South Africa’s cultural and political landscape. Her contributions span literature, education, and public service, having served as South Africa’s Ambassador to the United States and later to France. Her lifelong commitment to intellectual and cultural development has cemented her as a trailblazer in the arts and diplomacy.
Professor Alfred Msezane
A distinguished physicist, Professor Alfred Msezane has made groundbreaking contributions to atomic, molecular, and condensed matter physics. With an extensive body of research, he has influenced scientific advancements and mentored emerging scholars in his field. His academic excellence and dedication to fostering global research collaboration make him a worthy recipient of this esteemed award.
Professor Wiseman Nkuhlu
A pioneering academic and business leader, Professor Wiseman Nkuhlu is celebrated for his contributions to economic policy and governance. As the first Black Chartered Accountant in South Africa, he has paved the way for transformation in the accounting and financial sectors. His leadership in economic development and education underscores his dedication to advancing inclusive growth and ethical leadership.
Professor Huang Wei
A world-renowned scientist in organic electronics, Professor Huang Wei has made pioneering contributions to the fields of flexible electronics, organic semiconductors, and advanced materials. His research has driven major advancements in display technologies, energy storage solutions, and biomedical applications. As a highly respected academic and leader in scientific innovation, he has received numerous accolades and international recognition for his work. His contributions have not only propelled scientific progress but have also fostered global collaboration in research and technology. His dedication to advancing knowledge and shaping the future of materials science makes him a worthy recipient of this prestigious award.
Ms Margaret Busby
Ms Busby is a Ghanaian-born publisher, editor, writer and broadcaster, now residing in the United Kingdom. As the first black woman editor in the United Kingdom, Ms Busby ensured a reading list of African and African diaspora writers we now take for granted; she largely reshaped the literary and intellectual landscape globally. Partnering with Clive Allison, they started a publishing company, Allison & Busby. Allison & Busby challenged institutional racism and marketability concerns to give generations access to fiction and nonfiction works from around the world that we might not have otherwise had. Ms Busby’s commitment to transformation and her Pan-African vision makes her a worthy recipient of the Honorary Doctorate.
Says Professor Letlhokwa Mpedi, UJ’s Vice-Chancellor and Principal: “Each of these distinguished individuals embodies the University of Johannesburg’s values of excellence, leadership, and service to humanity. Their remarkable contributions have shaped their respective fields and inspired generations to strive for greater impact in society. The university takes great pride in recognising their achievements and celebrating their invaluable legacy.”
During this graduation period, more than 13 000 students, who have completed their qualifications, will graduate. Of this number, more than 9 000 are undergraduate students, while the rest are postgraduates, including 2310 Honours, 308 Master’s and 68 Doctoral qualifications.
Ends.
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