The honorary degrees will be awarded during the 2025 autumn graduation season, which commences at the University’s George Campus on 4 April before moving to the Gqeberha campuses from 11 to 25 April. More than 6 208 graduates will be capped this season.
The recipients of the honorary doctorates are:
· Letta Nomali Mbulu – Doctor of Music
· Ntombifuthi Temperance Mtoba – Doctor of Commerce (Accounting)
· Professor Amina Caroline Mama – Doctor of Philosophy and
· Professor David Richard Boyd – Doctor of Laws.
Nelson Mandela University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sibongile Muthwa said, “These honorary doctorates reflect Nelson Mandela University’s commitment to recognising individuals whose contributions align with its values of social justice, transformation and academic excellence.”
She expressed her pride in the recipients: “These distinguished individuals have not only excelled in their respective fields but have also profoundly influenced society through their advocacy, leadership, and dedication to human progress.”
Prof Muthwa added that as Nelson Mandela University prepares to welcome graduates, families and esteemed guests, the April graduation ceremonies serve as a powerful reminder of the transformative role of education in shaping a better future for all.
Celebrating excellence: Honorary Doctorates
Letta Nomali Mbulu – Honorary Doctorate in Music
Letta Mbulu is being recognised for her extraordinary contributions to the arts and her role as a powerful advocate for freedom through music.
Born in Soweto, Johannesburg, Mbulu's six-decade-long career has seen her collaborate with global icons such as Miriam Makeba, Hugh Masekela and Harry Belafonte.
Her music, deeply rooted in themes of resilience and liberation, played a pivotal role in the anti-apartheid movement.
Her return from exile in 1991 was a momentous occasion, marking her continued influence in shaping South Africa’s musical landscape.
Ntombifuthi Temperance Mtoba – Honorary Doctorate of Commerce (Accounting)
A trailblazer in corporate governance and accounting, Ntombifuthi Mtoba will be honoured for her groundbreaking leadership and commitment to transformation in the accounting profession.
As the first woman to chair Deloitte Southern Africa, she has been instrumental in fostering diversity and inclusion in the corporate world.
Beyond her corporate achievements, she has worked extensively in advancing education, financial literacy and social equity.
Her contributions to Business Unity South Africa and the African Women Chartered Accountants Association have been pivotal in empowering the next generation of financial professionals.
Professor Amina Caroline Mama – Honorary Doctorate of Philosophy (Sociology)
Prof Amina Mama, a distinguished feminist scholar and activist whose influential work in African feminist theory and gender studies has reshaped discourse on gender equality and the politics of development.
As the founding editor of Feminist Africa and a leading figure in academia, she has played a critical role in amplifying African feminist voices.
Her tenure at institutions such as the University of Cape Town and the University of California, Davis, has cemented her legacy as a thought leader advocating for social justice and equity.
Professor David Richard Boyd – Honorary Doctorate of Laws
Renowned environmental lawyer and human rights advocate Prof David Boyd has made outstanding contributions to environmental sustainability and human rights.
As a former United Nations Special Rapporteur on Human Rights and the Environment, he was instrumental in securing the recognition of a healthy environment as a fundamental human right by the UN General Assembly in 2022.
His work has significantly influenced global legal frameworks, ensuring that environmental protection remains a cornerstone of sustainable development and human dignity.