Stellenbosch University (SU) awarded an honorary doctorate to the Global Disability Advisor to the World Bank Group Charlotte Vuyiswa McClain-Nhlapo at its December graduation. She received the degree Doctor of Philosophy (DPhil), honoris causa, on Monday (11 December 2023) at the graduation ceremony for the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences.

McClain-Nhlapo was honoured for her lifelong work on social justice and equality.

In her acceptance speech, McClain-Nhlapo expressed her deepest appreciation to SU for bestowing upon her the honorary doctorate.

“It is truly an impressive privilege to be recognized by an institution that has been at the forefront of academic excellence and has contributed significantly to the advancement of knowledge and society. Receiving this honorary doctorate is very much a humbling experience, as it serves as a reminder of the responsibility that comes with such an honour.

“As I accept it, I am reminded of my responsibility to continue striving for excellence, to continue to grow my body of work, contribute to society's betterment and inspire others to pursue their dreams relentlessly. My presence here today is a testament to the power of education to break down barriers and create more just inclusive, equitable environments."

“The honorary doctorate also serves as a reminder of the transformative impact of education on an individual's life and society more broadly and the responsibility to use knowledge and skills for the betterment of society," added McClain-Nhlapo

She encouraged researchers, scholars, policymakers, and thought leaders to ensure that education is accessible to all, regardless of their race, gender, sexual orientation, or disability.

“Let us continue to strive for excellence, inspire others and seek positive impact in the world."

More about McClain-Nhlapo

McClain-Nhlapo's early career focused on child rights, and she worked with prominent legal scholars including Dullah Omar, and Bridgette Mabandla. After a serious car accident in 1994 left her with a spinal cord injury, McClain-Nhlapo widened her focus to include disability rights and she organised the first conference on children with disabilities in Parliament. She was also one of the principal authors of the South African Disability Strategy.

She has been involved with UNICEF as the Child Protection Officer responsible for children in extremely difficult circumstances, and later as Commissioner responsible for Social and Economic Rights at the South African Human Rights Commission. She always seeks to centre disability rights in all her endeavours. McClain-Nhlapo is currently the Global Disability Advisor to the World Bank Group. The honorary degree honours her commitment to raising awareness of the challenges facing disabled people at local, regional and international levels.

Photo: Charlotte Vuyiswa McClain-Nhlapo at the graduation: Photographer: Stefan Els