The University of the Western Cape (UWC) has honoured seven remarkable individuals whose lives and work have contributed to human rights, education, justice and social change.
The honorary degrees were conferred at a special ceremony on Friday, 28 August 2026, attended by students, academics, family members and dignitaries.
Among those honoured were former South African International Relations Minister Dr Naledi Pandor, constitutional advocate Adila Hassim SC and former President of Ireland and former United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Mary Robinson.
Also receiving honorary doctorates were United Nations Special Rapporteur on human rights in the occupied Palestinian territories Francesca Albanese and Professor Emeritus Loyiso Nongxa, a former Vice-Chancellor of Wits University and prominent mathematics education leader.
The late Charlotte Maxeke and Mandisa Monakali were honoured posthumously for their contributions to the advancement and protection of women and children.
For Dr Pandor, the recognition carried particular significance because of UWC’s history and its role in South Africa’s struggle for freedom and democracy.
“The moment I received the call, the thought was about the historic character of the University of the Western Cape and its contribution to our struggle for freedom,” she said.
Pandor added that she felt privileged to be associated with an institution that had continued to contribute to building South African society after apartheid.
Advocate Adila Hassim SC, who represented South Africa in its case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, said she was “completely overwhelmed” and surprised when she was contacted by the University.
“It’s really very special coming from UWC. The values of UWC resonate with me, and so it’s a very special honour indeed,” Hassim said.
UWC Rector and Vice-Chancellor Professor Robert Balfour told those gathered that honorary degrees are not awarded frequently by the University and that each recipient is carefully selected.
“Our honorary graduates include figures closely connected to South Africa’s struggle for democracy. Among them are Nelson Mandela, Oliver Tambo, Albertina Sisulu and Albie Sachs,” Balfour said.
“An honorary degree from this university has therefore long expressed solidarity, as well as inspired admiration.”
Balfour said this year’s recipients had each made exceptional contributions in their respective fields.
He highlighted the work of Hassim and Pandor in advancing South Africa’s engagement with international law, while Robinson and Albanese were recognised for keeping international attention focused on human rights and accountability.
The posthumous recognition of Charlotte Maxeke and Mandisa Monakali acknowledged their lifelong dedication to the education and protection of women and children.
Professor Emeritus Loyiso Nongxa was honoured for his contribution to widening access to mathematical sciences and leadership in higher education.
Each recipient received a standing ovation from the audience.
For Nongxa’s daughter, Buhle L Nongxa, seeing her father receive the honour was an especially emotional moment. “My dad has always just been my dad – and the best at that by the way,” she said, reflecting on his influence as an educator, mathematician and philanthropist.
The ceremony celebrated not only individual achievements, but also the values of service, justice, education and human rights that continue to shape UWC’s legacy.
Through the seven honorary doctorates, the University paid tribute to lives dedicated to making a meaningful difference in South Africa and around the world.
