​Dr Robert Adam received an honorary doctorate from Stellenbosch University (SU) at the institution's December graduation for advancing science and technology in South Africa. He was awarded the degree Doctor of Science, honoris causa, on Wednesday (13 December 2023) at the graduation ceremony for the Faculty of Science.

Adam was honoured for his outstanding lifelong contributions to science and technology in South Africa and to the disciplines of Astronomy and Physics, his commitment to the advancement of scientific knowledge through his academic pursuits, and his unwavering dedication to societal advancement.

In his acceptance speech, Adam imparted some valuable lessons to the graduates. He said that in a university environment being clever and articulate is very important and being recognized as such is even more important. “It's critical that your peers know where you stand on key issues and in seminal debates."

He added that to progress strategically in the corporate world and government, one should not show your hand unless you have to. Adam encouraged the graduates to get things done when they enter the job market.

More about Adam

Dr Adam has been a key player in the development of science and technology in South Africa. For close to three decades, he served in various roles in the sector, influencing the development of policies that guided the South African government's vision for science and technology. His positions included deputy director general of Science and Technology (1996), director general of Arts, Culture, Science and Technology, chief executive of the South African Nuclear Energy Corporation, director of the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) South Africa, and director of the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory.

His strategic acumen contributed to South Africa's successful bid to host the SKA Observatory, and he was instrumental in the completion of the MeerKAT radio telescope, a world-class scientific tool.

Adam, who now works as a consultant in strategy and technology, has also made a significant impact in the field of astrophysics as a member of the team that made groundbreaking observations of the galactic centre. His remarkable contributions to science and technology have earned him recognition from prestigious national and international organisations.

• ​Photo: Dr Robert Adam at the graduation: Photographer: Stefan Els​