Laikipia University to award Eliud Kipchoge Honorary Degree

Kenya's Eliud Kipchoge (white jersey) celebrates after crossing the finish line at the end of his attempt to bust the mythical two-hour barrier for the marathon on October 12, 2019, in Vienna [Courtesy]

World marathon record-holder Eliud Kipchoge will be awarded a Doctorate Degree in Science by Laikipia University as the institution holds its seventh graduation ceremony on Friday, December 6.

The University on Wednesday published an advert on The Standard newspaper (Page 4), confirming Kipchoge will receive his award, Honoris Causa, at the Main Campus’ Graduation Square. 

“Pursuant to Laikipia University Charter, 2013 Section III, (21) (4) (K) on the conferment of Honorary Degrees and upon recommendation of the University Senate and approval thereof by the Laikipia University Council, the University has the pleasure to present Mr. Eliud Kipchoge to Kenyans and the International Community for the award of Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) during the 7^th Graduation Ceremony to be held on Friday, 6 December, 2019 at the Graduation Square, Main Campus,” read part of the message.

The University goes on to recognise Kipchoge’s achievements, the most recent being running a full marathon under two hours at the INEOS 1:59 Challenge in Vienna, Austria on October 12.

“The University Senate in making this award noted that Eliud has made tremendous contributions in the realm of sports. The Senate specifically recognises his most recent achievement of becoming the first human in history to run a sub-two hour marathon. Further, Eliud has been crowned Male Athlete of The Year for two consecutive years (2018 & 2019)”.

Laikipia University's advert on The Standard Newspaper [Courtesy]

“It’s the first time we are awarding a top sports personality a honorary degree. As a university our niche areas are sports science and management. We want to become the center of excellence in sport and arts as we move into the new curriculum. That’s why we settled on Eliud,” said Professor Wanjiku Chiuri, the Deputy Vice Chancellor- Academics Research and Student affairs.

Honorary Degree

An Honorary Degree is an academic degree awarded by a university – where the usual requirements have been relinquished. It is usually known as ‘Honoris Causa’, a Latin phrase to mean ‘For The Sake of Honour’. In short, an Honorary Degree is one given to a person not necessarily a student but who has achieved something important.

Other sports personalities with Honorary Degrees:

Magic Johnson

Basketball legend Magic Johnson [Courtesy]

Basketball legend Magic Johnson was awarded a Doctorate of Business by the Xavier University in 2015.

Muhammad Ali

World boxing champion Muhammad Ali [Courtesy]

World boxing champion Muhammad Ali received two Doctorate of Humanities from Muhlenberg and Princeton University. Ali was recognized for his skills and perseverance, both in and out of the ring.

Vincent Kompany

Former Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany [Courtesy]

Former Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany was awarded an Honorary Doctorate by The University of Manchester following his graduation from the Alliance Manchester Business School, where he boasts of a Master’s Degree in Business Administration.

Allan Shearer

Ex-England and Newcastle United striker Allan Shearer [Courtesy]

The University of Stirling early this month awarded Ex-England and Newcastle United striker Allan Shearer with an Honorary Doctorate for his efforts in developing football as well as creating awareness on dementia in 2017.