By Lebone Rodah Mosima

University of Johannesburg (UJ) Chancellor, Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate by the University of Warwick, Coventry in the United Kingdom, in recognition of her exceptional global leadership in advancing gender equality, sustainable development and social justice.

A distinguished Warwick alumna, UJ said earlier this week that Mlambo-Ngcuka has dedicated her career to championing women’s rights and inclusive development.

“She previously served as United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director of UN Women, as well as Deputy President of South Africa, where she played a pivotal role in shaping policies that promoted equality, education, and economic empowerment,” the university said in media statement.

“Her decades of public service and advocacy have helped influence legal reform and expand opportunities for women across the world.”

The university expressed that the honorary degree celebrates Mlambo-Ngcuka’s lifelong commitment to building more inclusive societies and her leadership in spearheading global initiatives that promote gender equality and sustainable development.

It also added that the occasion marked a historic milestone for the University of Johannesburg, with UJ Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Letlhokwa George Mpedi, becoming the first visiting Vice-Chancellor from another university to be invited to join the University of Warwick’s official academic procession.

“The distinction reflected the strength of the growing partnership between UJ and Warwick and underscored the mutual respect shared by the two universities,” the university said.

Reflecting on the recognition, Mlambo-Ngcuka said she is deeply honoured to receive this accolade from her alma mater, adding that it is a testament not only to her personal journey but also to the collective efforts of many who continue to fight for equality and justice.

“At UJ, we place great importance on North–South collaboration, ensuring that partnerships with institutions in the Global North create equal opportunities and meaningful impact for the African continent and beyond,” Mlambo-Ngcuka said.

Congratulating the UJ Chancellor, the University’s Vice-Chancellor Prof Mpedi said the award reflected both Dr Mlambo-Ngcuka’s exceptional legacy and the values that define the University.

““We are immensely proud of Dr Mlambo-Ngcuka’s recognition by the University of Warwick. Her lifelong commitment to advancing gender equality, education and social justice embodies the very values that UJ stands for. This Honorary Doctorate not only celebrates her remarkable achievements but also strengthens the ties between our institutions, reinforcing the importance of North–South collaboration in creating equal opportunities and driving meaningful global impact,” said Mpedi.

The university emphasised that this recognition further deepens the longstanding relationship between UJ and the University of Warwick, underscoring their shared commitment to academic excellence, equity, and international collaboration.

It also said that the award comes just weeks before the inaugural Dr Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka Annual Lecture, scheduled for 12 August 2026 at UJ, to be delivered by Thenjiwe Mtintso, as part of UJ’s ongoing effort to promote discussions on gender equality, leadership, and social justice.

“The 2026 lecture coincides with the 70th anniversary of the historic 1956 Women’s March, when more than 20,000 women marched to the Union Buildings in protest against the extension of pass laws to women,” the university said.

“The march remains one of the defining moments in South Africa’s democratic history and a lasting symbol of courage, solidarity, and the transformative role of women in society.”

Through this annual lecture, UJ said it aims to celebrate women’s leadership in tackling critical societal issues, showcase impactful work by women within and outside the university, strengthen its commitment to gender equality and inclusivity, and foster collaboration between academia, civil society, and public institutions.

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